*Ph.D. in Ecology and Science Communication*
We are currently looking for a Ph.D. student for Spring 2018 to help with a project that focuses on reducing informational feedback delays between applied ecological research and adoption of management practices in the Northern Great Plains (USA). That is, in what ways can monitoring and experimental data be translated into local-scale useable products? The successful candidate will use existing data from national research networks and research stations to engage local stakeholders to design and test the usability of real-time data products. The student will work collaboratively with ecologists, social scientists, and local landowners to create products that influence management practices and enhance ecosystem services on working lands. *Qualifications* -B.S. in one of the following areas: environmental science, biology, agricultural ecosystems, natural resources management, or rangeland ecology -Demonstrated ability to work with stakeholders -Strong communication skills -Strong quantitative skills -Some programming experience and interest in using visualization techniques preferred. *Funding* The student will enroll in the Ph.D. program in Virginia Tech’s Department of Forest Resources & Environmental Conservation and will be affiliated with the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies <http://www.caryinstitute.org/science-program/our-scientists/dr-kathleen-c-weathers> (http://www.caryinstitute.org/), one of the world’s leading independent, environmental research organizations. Full graduate research assistantship (with stipend) and tuition waiver will be provided for 3 years and additional opportunities for funding are available. Students are strongly encouraged to apply to be a fellow in Virginia Tech’s Interfaces of Global Change <http://www.globalchange.vt.edu/igc/> graduate program ( http://www.globalchange.vt.edu/igc/), an interdisciplinary program designed to address the multidimensional aspects of global change. *Applying* Interested students are encouraged to email the following as a single pdf document: 1) a brief cover letter describing their professional background, relevant research experience and interests, career goals, and reasons for seeking a Ph.D., 2) a current curriculum vitae/resume, 3) names and contact information for three references, and 4) an unofficial copy of transcripts and GRE scores. Please send directly to me at msor...@vt.edu. Do not submit materials to the Virginia Tech Graduate School at this time. Applications will be reviewed as soon as they are received, but materials must be received before 31 October 2017. The target start date is January 2018 or Fall 2018 . *Contact Information* Michael Sorice (Primary contact for position) Associate Professor, Department of Forest Resources & Environmental Conservation Virginia Tech Phone: (540) 231-8303 Email: m-sor...@vt.edu Kathleen Weathers, Senior Scientist Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies Phone: (845) 677-7600 Email: weathe...@caryinstitute.org -- *Michael G. Sorice*, 310A Cheatham Hall (0324), Blacksburg, VA, 24061, Ph: (540) 231-8303, msor...@vt.edu http://sorice.frec.vt.edu/
