The Jornada Experimental Range in Las Cruces, NM seeks a graduate research assistant (MS or PhD) to join our team. The successful applicant will work with Jornada scientists, staff, and external collaborators on a funded project to assess the effectiveness of streamflow and vegetation treatments on dust emission from a playa surface. The project aims to understand how aeolian-fluvial interactions respond to climate and vegetation treatments to drive trends in local dust emission, which has significant economic and hazardous impacts along a major transportation corridor. There are multiple avenues for the successful applicant to contribute to the overall project through their graduate research. The student will receive their degree from New Mexico State University’s Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences ( https://pes.nmsu.edu/) and will be expected to produce original research for their graduate thesis. Successful applicants should be highly motivated, creative, and willing to work independently and as a part of a diverse, multidisciplinary team.
Qualifications
Applicants should have an undergraduate degree in natural resources, geography, environmental science, or a related field. A background in aeolian processes, restoration ecology, or rangeland science is desirable, but not required. Experience (or coursework) with ecological, meteorological, and/or climatological data analysis is also desirable.
About the Jornada
The Jornada Experimental Range ( https://jornada.nmsu.edu/) enjoys a global network of partners and collaborators as we work to increase sustainability and resilience in rangelands. Scientists and staff work closely with producers, land management agencies, and non-governmental organizations to support sustainable agriculture, land management, restoration, and climate adaptation. We also conduct research with numerous universities and international organizations. Students play an important role in these efforts and gain valuable experience working as part of a large team to address complex issues. We actively support professional development and encourage students to engage directly with our network of stakeholders and collaborators. Many of our students go on to a successful career with these same partners.
To Apply
Interested individuals should submit a brief statement outlining their experience and research interests related to the position, an unofficial copy of transcripts, and the names and contact information of two references. Letters of reference may be requested for finalists. Please send application materials (in a single PDF document) or questions about the opportunity to Brandon Edwards (bedwar4@nmsu.edu), Jornada Experimental Range, Las Cruces, NM.
