POSITION TITLE: M.S. Research Assistantship in Forest Ecohydrology

Hiring Organization/Employer:  NAu School of Forestry
Application Deadline:  June 30, 2026
Education Required:  Bachelors
Location:  Flagstaff, AZ
Website Link/URL:  https://www.dymondlab.com/

Description:  

 

Dr. Salli Dymond is seeking a master’s student to join her research group at Northern Arizona University (NAU) beginning summer or fall 2026. The GRA will work on a collaborative research project with Dr. Teki Sankey (NAU), Dr. Jackson Leonard (USFS) and Dr. Joel Biederman (ARS) investigating the ecohydrological impacts of thinning southwestern forests. Specifically, this field-intensive project will comprehensively assess the long-term ecohydrological impacts of thinning treatments across the Upper Verde watershed in northern Arizona. Results from this study will inform land management and restoration efforts in the region, particularly in watersheds that are facing a multitude of disturbance threats.

 

The student will be expected to lead a crew to conduct field work in remote forests with limited supervision during the summer. Field work will entail hiking with heavy packs in extreme heat, digging deep soil pits, and potentially camping overnight. An ability to work in harsh environments, adhere to safety standards, and maintain a positive attitude is a must.

The successful applicant must have an undergraduate degree in Hydrology, Forestry, Environmental Sciences, Earth Sciences, or a related field by the start of the position. The applicant is also expected to have experience or be willing to work in remote locations with limited supervision. Experience with environmental sensors, field sample and data collection, elemental analysis, and/or scientific writing is a plus.

The M.S. position is in the School of Forestry and will be advised by Dr. Dymond. Funding will include a graduate research stipend, tuition waiver, and health benefits.

 

Preferred Qualifications:  

 The successful applicant must have an undergraduate degree in Hydrology, Forestry, Environmental Sciences, Earth Sciences, or a related field by the start of the position. The applicant is also expected to have experience or be willing to work in remote locations with limited supervision. Experience with environmental sensors, field sample and data collection, elemental analysis, and/or scientific writing is a plus.

 

How to Apply:  

 

Interested individuals should send a CV, one-page cover letter, and contact information for 1-2 professional references to Dr. Dymond via email (salli.dymond@nau.edu). The selected candidate must then apply and be accepted to the NAU School of Forestry graduate program for Fall 2026.