We are seeking two motivated Master’s students to join our team and embark on a series of innovative research projects focused on integrating mapping and modeling tools to improve strategic fuel reduction, restoration and wildfire and flood mitigation efforts in forests and woodlands of the southwestern U.S., A variety of graduate research opportunities are possible working with this multidisciplinary team on integration of wildfire management, hydrology, forest ecology, and remote sensing.
Potential project opportunities include:
1. Wildfire and/or Post-Fire Flooding Hazard Reduction: Dive into modeling projects that assess the effectiveness of various land treatment scenarios. Using remotely sensed data, you will evaluate strategies to mitigate the risks of wildfire and subsequent flooding hazards. This project provides a chance to work on fire behavior and/or hydrology/flood hazard modeling, shaping future land management practices.
2. Forest Mortality and Hazardous Fuels: Explore the impacts of tree mortality on hazardous fuels and potential fire behavior. Investigate how 3D data can be used to quantify forest structural complexity and model effects of natural disturbances and treatment interventions on fuels and fire behavior. This research avenue offers a rich field of possibilities for specialization and discovery.
3. Advanced Data Analysis and Modeling: Engage with cuting-edge tools such as lidar for high-resolution mapping and analysis. You will gain hands-on experience in leveraging remote sensing data to inform fire behavior models and ecological assessments, contributing to the development of more resilient forest management strategies.
What We Offer:
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Work alongside experts in fire science, ecology, hydrology, and remote sensing, benefiting from a collaborative and supportive research environment.
• Skill Development: Acquire advanced skills in data analysis, modeling, and fieldwork, positioning you for a successful career in environmental research and beyond.
• Impactful Research: Contribute to research with significant implications for wildfire management, ecosystem resilience, and climate adaptation strategies.
Support: Funding for this research will provide selected candidates with an assistantship stipend, tuition, and health insurance, allowing students to focus on research and scholarly activities.
Call for Applicants: If you are passionate about contributing to sustainable ecosystem management and possess a keen interest in forest and fire science, hydrology, ecology or remote sensing, we invite you to apply. Position is open until filled with a preferred start date of Summer 2024. Interested candidates are encouraged to immediately contact Dr. Sánchez Meador or Dr. Andi Thode to express interest and/or apply.