The Collaborative Conservation & Adaptation Planning Lab at Auburn University is seeking a motivated master’s student to contribute to a research project examining the challenges related to localization efforts within the international conservation and development context. Localization refers to the process of shifting decision-making power, resources, and implementation responsibilities from international donors and large organizations to local communities, organizations, and governments. It emphasizes context-specific, culturally relevant, and community-driven solutions to conservation and sustainability challenges. In addition, the position will have an opportunity to explore the consequences of USAID’s abrupt suspension/withdrawal from environmental/conservation projects within local community contexts.
The selected student will play a key role in qualitative data collection and analysis, engaging with development agencies & officers (e.g., USAID, GIZ, UKAID), local NGOs, stakeholders, and impacted communities. The project has the potential for international fieldwork and engagement on the ground as well as virtual data collection. Dr. Jurjonas anticipates that Mexico will be the primary study area given the lab’s existing professional and local community network. However, this work could potentially expand to other regions in Latin America or beyond depending on the selected student’s interests, expertise, and network.
The expected start date of the position is August 1st, 2025. The salary is $22,600 plus tuition remission & benefits. For more information about graduate education in the College, please visit: https://cfwe.auburn.edu/graduate-student-services/.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct literature reviews.
- Conduct qualitative research (interviews, focus groups, ethnographic fieldwork) on sustainable international development programs and localization efforts.
- Work with local NGOs and communities to coordinate data collection using both remote and in-person interview strategies.
- Analyze qualitative and quantitative data related to sustainable livelihoods, environmental security, and economic alternatives, and localization in Mexico/Latin America.
- Share findings through academic publications and conference presentations.
Qualifications
Required:
- The Candidate must have completed an undergraduate degree in Conservation Social Science, Human Dimensions of Natural Resources, Environmental Sociology, Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management, or a related field prior to starting.
- Experience with or interest in qualitative research methods (interviews, focus groups, ethnographic observation).
- Strong analytical and writing skills.
- Interest in sustainable development, environmental justice, and localization.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in international research settings.
- Potential candidates for this position must meet admission standards and be accepted into the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment MS program. More information about our graduate program can be found here: https://cfwe.auburn.edu/graduate-study/graduate-degrees/.
- Candidates must also meet general (minimum) admission requirements for the Auburn University Graduate School, as outlined here: https://graduate.auburn.edu/prospective-students/general-admission-requirements/.
Preferred:
- Experience working in Mexico, Latin America, or on development projects in rural natural resource dependent communities.
- Knowledge of Spanish (fluency highly preferred).
- Background in NGO work, environmental security, or rural economies research.
How to Apply
Interested individuals should contact Dr. Matthew Jurjonas at mdj0048@auburn.edu with any questions and to apply. To apply, please state “Conservation & Development Localization MS Assistantship” in the email subject line and include a single PDF document with the following:
- A Statement of Interest/Personal Statementdetailing research interests and relevant experience
- A CV/Resume
- TOFEL or IELTS scores (if applicable) and GRE scores (if available)
- Unofficial transcripts
- A Writing Sample(e.g., thesis chapter, research paper, or report)
- The names and email addresses for three professional references
Application Deadline: Review of Applications will begin on March 7th, 2025 and continue until the position is filled.