Utah State University is offering fully funded graduate assistantships for one MS and one PhD student to join a dynamic research team in Logan, Utah. These prestigious positions are part of the National Needs Fellows (NNF) cohort and focus on disturbance ecology and forest resources management across the Intermountain West.
Start date: As early as August 2026 (positions begin after 1 August 2026). Location: Logan, Utah, USA. Application review: Starts immediately and continues until the positions are filled.
About the Research Project
The assistantships support a United States Department of Agriculture project for Forest Service Region 4 Disaster Recovery. The research aims to strengthen the scientific basis for forest resources management in the Intermountain West.
- PhD position (Howe Lab): You will quantify and monitor how management activities and silviculture treatments affect forest structure and recovery in areas impacted by biotic disturbance, abiotic disturbance, or both. You will also examine the combined drivers of biotic and abiotic disturbances.
- MS position (Yocom Lab): You will investigate the effectiveness of fire-risk reduction strategies in mixed-conifer forests.
You will work closely with a collaborative multidisciplinary team: Dr Michael Howe, Dr Larissa Yocom, Dr Justin DeRose, and Dr Catrin Edgeley. The programme includes teamwork training, leadership development through extension and seminar activities, mentoring opportunities, and hands-on experience with state-of-the-art tools. You will maintain organised databases, contribute to team projects, publish in peer-reviewed journals, and present findings to landowners, policymakers, and the scientific community.
Eligibility Requirements
PhD applicants
- Must hold an MS degree in forestry, entomology, ecology, or a closely related field.
MS applicants
- Must hold a BS/BA degree in forestry, ecology, biology, or a closely related field.
Highly qualified candidates from other relevant disciplines will also be considered. Preferred qualifications (for both positions):
- Strong qualitative and quantitative research skills
- Field experience in forestry, ecology, or related areas
International students are encouraged to apply.
Benefits of the Utah State University Graduate Assistantships
These positions are fully funded and include:
- Stipend: – PhD: $24,500 per year for up to 5 years – MS: $23,500 per year for 2 years
- Full coverage of tuition and fees
- Health insurance
- Travel allowance for conferences and field work
- At least 40 hours per week (standard graduate assistantship commitment)
How to Apply – Step-by-Step Guide
Applying is straightforward and completely free. Follow these steps:
- Prepare your application documents (see list below).
- Write a clear cover letter that highlights your relevant experience, research interests, and why you want to join this specific project.
- Compile everything into a single email (PDF attachments preferred).
- Send your complete application by email to:
- Dr Michael Howe (preferred contact): [email protected]
- OR Dr Larissa Yocom: [email protected]
- Subject line recommendation: “Graduate Assistantship Application – [MS or PhD] – Your Full Name”
Review of applications begins immediately. Early submission is strongly recommended as positions will be filled as soon as suitable candidates are found. The formal deadline listed is 14 April 2027, but the team will close applications once the roles are filled.
Required Documents
- A cover letter describing your experience and interest in the project
- Curriculum vitae (CV) or resume
- Unofficial academic transcripts
- List of three professional references with their contact information (name, position, email, and phone number).