Graduate Research Assistant
Human Dimensions of Marine and Coastal Ecosystems Program University of Massachusetts Amherst Amherst, Massachusetts The Human Dimensions of Marine and Coastal Ecosystems Program is a social science research unit in the Department of Natural Resources Conservation at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Our purpose is to assist federal, state, and local resource management agencies, programs, and NGOs seeking to include social science capacities within marine and coastal management frameworks by conducting research and assisting staff. Recent projects that the Human Dimensions of Marine and Coastal Ecosystems Program has been involved with include a social assessment of the impacts of the Tortugas Ecological Reserve, an examination of the connections between the enabling legislation and the management plan for the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, a re-study of the linkages between the environment, social values, and economy of the Florida Keys, and a study of anglers, divers, and snorkelers in South Florida.Future projects will likely work in other locales. We are seeking a Ph.D. student in the Program. The preferred start date is January 1, 2008. However, late Spring/early Summer 2008 would be acceptable. The anticipated time-frame to complete the degree requirements is four years. In general, the successful candidate will be expected to focus on and acquire knowledge in the social and behavioral sciences and apply this knowledge to coastal marine resource issues (including coral reefs). The development of strong quantitative research and analysis skills will be required. Specifically, the student should expect to: Take two classes per semester in some but not all fields relating to social psychology, psychology, sociology, public policy, political science, organizational behavior, natural resource management, quantitative research methods, and statistics; Be actively engaged in a variety of ongoing and future Program research projects conducted for government agencies and NGOs; Travel to and present at relevant meetings and conferences; and Pursue scholarly publication in various outlets, including relevant journals, technical reports, and conference proceedings Qualifications: 1) the ability to work collaboratively and cooperatively as a member of a team and to assume leadership roles in different aspects of different projects. 2) A Master?s degree in the social or natural sciences or a natural resource discipline. 3) An ability and desire to conduct research into different coastal marine resource management issues. 4) Excellent communication and writing skills and good public speaking ability. Compensation: A waiver of tuition and most fees, health and dental care, and $18,000 annual stipend. Contact: Please send resume, letter of interest summarizing qualifications, and three references to: David K. Loomis, Associate Professor, Department of Natural Resources Conservation, Holdsworth Natural Resources Center, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA 01003. Loomis@nrc.umass.edu <mailto:Loomis%40nrc.umass.edu> ; 413.545.6641. www.umass.edu/hd
Dim 4 Nov 2007 - 16:20