MS Position in Forest Ecology: Hurricane Impacts on Oak-Hickory Ecosystems (Southern Appalachians)

North Carolina State University is recruiting a motivated MS student to join a research project focused on the effects of hurricanes on oak-hickory ecosystems in the southern Appalachian region of the United States. The project investigates how forest structure, composition, and function are impacted by extreme weather events, specifically examining the aftermath of Hurricane Helene in western North Carolina. The research will assess the variability of hurricane-induced damage, the influence of downed woody materials on wildlife distributions, and the challenges of oak regeneration in disturbed forests. The successful candidate will work closely with a collaborative team including Dr. Jodi Forrester and Dr. Chris Moorman from NC State University, and Dr. Tara Keyser from the US Forest Service. The research will utilize inventories of vegetation and wildlife to evaluate and support forest recovery and rehabilitation efforts. The project is situated within the Department of Forestry and Environmental Resources and the College of Natural Resources at NC State University, offering access to a vibrant academic community and extensive field research opportunities. Applicants should have a background in Forest and/or Wildlife Ecology, Conservation Biology, or a related field. Essential skills include strong oral and written communication, quantitative data analysis, and experience working in forest ecosystems. The preferred start date for the position is May 2026. While funding details are not specified in the announcement, prospective students are encouraged to contact Dr. Jodi Forrester for more information regarding financial support. To apply, candidates should send an academic CV and a cover letter describing their relevant experience as a single document to Dr. Jodi Forrester at [email protected] . For further details about the research group and department, visit the College of Natural Resources directory . This opportunity is ideal for students interested in forest ecology, disturbance ecology, conservation biology, and the application of quantitative methods to ecological research.