POSITION TITLE: Graduate Research Assistantship
Hiring Organization/Employer: University of Missouri
Application Deadline: 9/1/2026
Education Required: M.S.
Location: Columbia, MO
Description:
A doctoral Graduate Research Assistantship is available in the School of Natural Resources,
University of Missouri with advisor Dr. Benjamin Knapp (Associate Professor of Silviculture).
The successful applicant will develop and lead research on stand dynamics of upland oak forests
managed with uneven-aged silviculture. The project will focus on a large dataset that includes over
400 forest inventory plots, initially established in the 1950s and maintained through present, at
Pioneer Forest in Missouri. The forest is managed through primarily selection silviculture. The
project will evaluate rates of tree mortality, growth, and recruitment across Pioneer Forest to model
stand dynamics in relation to management. Additional field data will be collected to address
specific questions related to tree recruitment. The project will include collaboration with Pioneer
Forest staff and potentially other state and federal partners.
Compensation & Benefits:
The GRA will provide an annual stipend of $30,000,
a tuition waiver, and the option of health insurance
coverage.
Preferred Qualifications:
Applicants must have a Masters of Science degree in Forestry, Ecology, Natural Resources,
Environmental Sciences, or a related field. Applicants must have a strong desire to work with
forest inventory data and to work in harsh field conditions for data collection. The candidate will
be responsible for publishing results in peer-reviewed journals and management guides or
workshops for practitioners. Applicants should have strong skills with field work, data
management and analysis, and written and oral communication.
How to Apply:
To apply, submit the following to
Dr. Benjamin Knapp (knappb@missouri.edu):
1) personal statement of career goals
2) resume or curriculum vitae
3) transcripts (unofficial)
4) contact information for three references