PhD Research Assistant: Forest Science & Remote Sensing (Tuition)

LTER Net; Minnesota; On-site; USD 22,000 - 26,000; Full time

Job summary

Michigan Technological University in collaboration with USDA’s Northern Research Station seeks a PhD Student as a Research Assistant in Forest Science and Remote Sensing. The role focuses on developing invasive species maps using Sentinel-2 imagery and field measurements to support wetland ash forest management.

Starts as spring 2027, with a 3-year assistantship covering tuition. Required MS in forestry or related field, strong remote sensing analytics, and programming in R and Python.

Qualifications

• MS degree in forestry, forest science, natural resources or ecology from an accredited college or university.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Strong analytical and statistical background in remote sensing.
• Experience publishing in professional journals.
• Keen research interest in forest science and enthusiasm for remote sensing.
• Ability to drive independently with a valid US driver’s license.
• Programming experience in R and Python is desirable at hire.

Responsibilities

• Develop tools for early detection and rapid response to locate and eradicate potential invasive species.
• Conduct research in lowland forests by Lake Superior in northern Wisconsin, the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, and Minnesota using remote sensing images.
• Publish findings in professional journals and collaborate with MTU and USDA partners.

Skills

Remote sensing

Analytical skills

Statistical background

Programming in R and Python

Scientific writing

Education

MS degree in forestry, forest science, natural resources or ecology

Tools

R

Python

Job description

Michigan Technological University in collaboration with USDA’s Northern Research Station seeks a PhD Student as a Research Assistant in Forest Science and Remote Sensing. The role focuses on developing invasive species maps using Sentinel-2 imagery and field measurements to support wetland ash forest management.

Starts as spring 2027, with a 3-year assistantship covering tuition. Required MS in forestry or related field, strong remote sensing analytics, and programming in R and Python.