Science in environmental policy and management Position Description: This PhD project with the Rissman research group will focus on how science is used (or isn't) as evidence in environmental management, policy, and politics. Scientific knowledge about environmental conditions can inform problem definition, analyze the expected effects of management options, and evaluate prior actions. However, the role of scientific knowledge in decision-making is challenging to predict and may even worsen political disagreement. This research will improve our understanding of the feedbacks between monitoring and modeling of environmental conditions and changes, environmental management, and policy argumentation.
One aspect of the position is to work as part of the Novel Ecosystems IGERT (Integrative Graduate Education and Research Traineeship), funded by the National Science Foundation (www.conservationigert.com). This dissertation will examine how research conducted through the Novel Ecosystems IGERT is extended and used in diverse environmental management contexts, including wildlife and fish management, conservation planning, water quality, and forestry. The position will examine how decision-makers in these different sectors use and perceive information and plan for novel and changing environmental conditions. There is also an opportunity to select a PhD minor in Science and Technology Studies through the Holtz Center, sts.wisc.edu. University, Department, Lab: The University of Wisconsin -Madison is one of the major research universities in the United States (www.wisc.edu). It ranks 2nd in research expenditures among all U.S. universities and first among public universities. Total student enrollment is 41,500, out of which 8,800 are graduate students. Employees include 2,000 faculty. UW-Madison has a long history of excellence in ecology, conservation biology, and remote sensing science. This project will be housed with the Rissman group ( http://labs.russell.wisc.edu/rissman/) in the Department of Forest & Wildlife Ecology (http://www.fwe.wisc.edu). Town: Madison, Wisconsin consistently ranks as one of the best places in the United States to live, work, and study. It is Wisconsin's capital city, with a vibrant population of approximately 200,000 that combines small town charm with a variety of leisure and cultural opportunities. For more information on campus and town see http://www.wisc.edu/about/facts/ Stipend/Salary: Current annual stipend levels are $20,808 per year before taxes, plus tuition remission and health care benefits. Financial support is provided by USDA and NSF, available for four years. A start date of September of 2014 is envisioned. Qualifications: A BS degree in environmental studies, science studies, geography, political science, sociology, public administration, natural resources, forestry, wildlife ecology, or other related disciplines is required. Applicants with a Master's degree are desired but not required. Experience with social science research is preferred. Preference will be given to applicants with some background in science policy, science and technology studies, or human dimensions of ecosystem management. Preference also given to an applicant with some background in environmental science related to forestry, wildlife, biodiversity, or water quality. Work experience in conservation agencies or nonprofit organizations also desired. Good English writing and verbal communication skills, as well as the ability to work in a team, are essential. Application Process: Applications will be reviewed upon receipt and review will continue until candidates are chosen. *Applications received before March 21st 2014 are guaranteed consideration*. The University of Wisconsin-Madison is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. We promote excellence through diversity and encourage all qualified individuals to apply. The position to open to both US citizen and international candidates. Interested applicants are asked to e-mail the documents listed below to our Student Services Coordinator Sara Rodock ([email protected]) (in ONE PDF file please). - Our departmental graduate application cover sheet ( http://go.wisc.edu/63u6lc) - Letter outlining research interests, academic and professional backgrounds - Resume or CV - Copies of transcripts (unofficial copies acceptable at this point) - GRE scores if available - Reprints of publications if available - Names and contact addresses of three references Dr. Adena Rissman Department of Forest and Wildlife Ecology University of Wisconsin 1630 Linden Drive Russell Laboratories Madison WI 53706 [email protected] http://forestandwildlifeecology.wisc.edu/graduate-training-opportunities
