MSc Opportunity: Examining how fuel loads influence fire risk through using lidar and spatial analyses

We are looking for a talented MSc student to explore the conditions that make forests in western Canada more resilient to wildlife. The position will involve using spatial datasets (such as from airborne lidar and multispectral imagery) and historical information to link the landscape and stand-level forest metrics to the risk of and impacts from wildfire.

This MSc project will be part of a larger research program with links to impacts to wildlife and with connections to First Nations and traditional knowledge. Specific research questions will be co-developed with the student based on discussions with project partners.

Qualifications:

-BSc in Forestry, Ecology, Geography, Environmental Science or a similar field

-Enthusiastic about forest ecology, wildfire, and resilience

-Experience and keen interest in conducting spatial analysis

-Coding skills and interest (R and/or Python)

The student will be based at the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) in Prince George, BC and will be co-supervised by Drs. Oscar Venter and Erin Crockett.

The Natural Resources and Environmental Studies graduate program provides a dynamic hub of students and researchers with a broad range of research interests. Please explore the website for further information about the graduate program: https://www.unbc.ca/nres-graduate-program

The desired start date is Sep 2025. Funding is anticipated at $27,000/year for two years, though the student will be expected to apply for external awards (e.g. NSERC).

To apply, please email (i) a cover letter outlining your motivation, experience, and research interests (ii) a CV, and (iii) a transcript.

All qualified persons are encouraged to apply, and we particularly invite applications from persons who are a member of one or more marginalized communities.

Applications received by Apr 15 will be given full consideration.

To apply and for further information, please contact erin.crockett@unbc.ca.