Fully Funded PhD Opportunity in Human Dimensions of Nature at the Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources, University of Vermont, USA
Application Deadline – 15 March 2025 and Internal Deadline – 10 February 2025
For details contact Dr. Helina Jolly (helina.jolly@uvm.edu)
The Jolly Lab at the Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources is seeking a dedicated student for a fully funded PhD program to investigate the human dimensions of nature, engaging with Indigenous and local communities on critical topics such as wildlife, land, water, and food systems. Preference will be given to projects with a local geographical focus; however, we also encourage compelling proposals with a global perspective.
Some examples of preferred projects are applying Indigenous and traditional knowledge in human-wildlife coexistence, biocultural food systems, food security, land/water stewardship and management practices such as cultural burning, and the characterization of ecosystems from community perspectives and policy discourses around these. These examples serve merely as a starting point; prospective students are invited to think creatively alongside and beyond them. If you are passionate about making a difference through community engaged research, we invite you to apply.
Key Highlights:
- Fully funded for three years (tuition, stipend, and health insurance) through Research & Teaching Assistantships
- Potential fourth-year support through TA positions (subject to availability)
- Strong emphasis on community collaboration and engagement with local organizations
Preferred Qualifications & Expectations:
- Master’s degree in environmental sciences, wildlife, ecology, geography, natural resource management, or a related field with a minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher.
- Strong writing, communication, and organizational skills
- Experience engaging with communities and stakeholders/rightsholders
- Training in qualitative and/or quantitative social science research methods
- Ability to design and conduct original, empirical research
- Willingness to co-author publications and collaborate on funding proposals
Application: If you are interested, please submit the following to Prof Jolly at helina.jolly@uvm.edu with the subject line – “Prospective Graduate Student” by February 10, 2025.
**Curriculum Vitae (CV)**: Please include your contact information and details for three references who can speak to your academic and professional qualifications.
**Cover Letter**: This should outline how your background aligns with the preferred qualifications listed in the advertisement, highlighting any relevant experience and skills.
**Research Proposal**: Submit a 1–2-page proposal that presents your initial research ideas. Typically, your proposal should outline: your project and research goals, how your project fits into the field , your plan for conducting your research , the scope of the project and timescales. We understand these concepts may evolve over time, but we value your preliminary thoughts.
**Writing Samples**: Include one or two samples of your previous written work to showcase your research and writing abilities.
Strong applicants will be encouraged to complete an application to the UVM Graduate College for the Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources (RSENR) Program (PhD in Natural Resources) by March 15, 2025 – when applying, please state your interest in this position in the Statement of Purpose.” We look forward to your application and the opportunity to work together in making a meaningful impact on environmental research and community engagement! 🌍