Sustainability Research Assistant (Wood Value Chains)

The University of Georgia; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 20,664 - 27,552; Part time

Job summary

The University of Georgia is seeking a Student Assistant to support research on how industrial structure and forest ecosystems shape sustainable wood‑based sector development in the U.S. Southeast.

You will assist data collection, literature reviews, and synthesis, contributing to methodological development and policy-relevant insights within a collaborative research team in Athens. The role emphasizes strong written communication and ability to work independently and with stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master’s degree in business economics, sustainability, forestry, natural resource management, or related fields
• Basic understanding of carbon flows in forest products and life cycle assessment (LCA)
• Strong written and verbal communication skills and ability to work both independently and in a team

Responsibilities

• Data collection – through secondary sources and expert consultation (50% of time)
• Literature review (20% of time)
• Data synthesis and writing (30% of time)

Skills

Interest in international work

Ability to handle datasets

Environmental-economy analysis

Written and verbal communication

Independent and collaborative work

Education

BSc/MSc in business economics or sustainability or forestry

Related fields considered

Job description

Position Summary

Our project aims to gain novel actionable insights about how industrial structure, business‑society interactions and forest ecosystems shape the outlook of development of sustainable wood‑based sector in two heavily forested and industrialized regions; the U.S. southeast and Nordics facing emerging environmental and economic disruptions. The student will support data collection and methodological development to generate insights into the sustainability impacts and potential of wood use, with a focus on the U.S. and the U.S. Southeast.

Responsibilities

• Data collection – through secondary sources and expert consultation (50% of time)
• Literature review (20% of time)
• Data synthesis and writing (30% of time)

Qualifications & Experience

• BSc/MSc in business economics, sustainability, forestry, natural resource management, or related fields
• Basic understanding of carbon flows in forest products and life cycle assessment (LCA)

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Competencies

• Interest in international work in the fields of forest products, policy, and sustainability
• Ability to handle datasets
• Strong interest in, and/or demonstrated experience with, environmental‑economic and sustainability analysis of bio‑based products and materials
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a research team

Physical Demands

Computer work, expert consultation

Other Job Details

Classification Title: Student Assistant

FLSA: Non‑Exempt

FTE: 0.50

Location: Athens Area

EEO Statement

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR ([e-mail]).

Background Investigation

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job‑based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre‑employment drug test for positions with high‑risk responsibilities, if applicable.

Contact Details

Recruitment Contact: Jaana Korhonen ([e-mail])