Graduate Student Positions Available in Urban Ecosystem Research The Urban Ecology and Sustainability Lab (UESL) at the University of British Columbia invites applications for multiple graduate positions under the supervision of Dr. Melissa McHale. We are recruiting up to two Master's students and/or two PhD students to join our team, conducting innovative and applied research that directly informs urban planning, climate action, and ecosystem management.
Our lab focuses on co-producing actionable science with diverse external partners, including city managers, planners, consulting companies, and non-profit organizations. We value research that drives meaningful change in cities and communities. Graduate Student Research Projects We are seeking graduate students who are interested in working on projects tailored to the unique needs of cities in British Columbia. Project 1: Spatial Analyses of Urban Heat and Complex Social-Ecological Dynamics - Urban heat challenges are intensifying as cities expand, demanding a nuanced understanding of the interplay between urban structure, social factors, and ecological systems. This project focuses on conducting multi-scale spatial analyses to inform practices, planning, and policies for urban heat mitigation. Research will explore social-ecological dynamics across scales, from individual parcels to neighborhoods and entire cities, incorporating both public and private spaces. Project 2: Navigating Complexity in Tree Species Selection for Urban Resilience - Selecting the right tree for the right place in urban environments is increasingly challenging in the face of climate change, limited nursery stock, and sociocultural considerations. This project focuses on creating a comprehensive database of tree species tailored to urban conditions, with the potential to evolve into a decision-making toolkit. Beyond technical solutions, it will investigate the barriers to urban forest diversification, including logistical, economic, and cultural obstacles. As part of this project, we may have the ability analyze long-term tree inventory data for many different cities to evaluate drivers of tree health and mortality. Key Project 3: Heat and Water Tradeoffs in Urban Ecosystem Management - Urban heat mitigation strategies often intersect with water management challenges, especially in water-limited regions. This project will investigate the tradeoffs between cooling strategies and water use, examining how different landscape configurations, tree canopy coverage, and irrigation practices influence both thermal comfort and water consumption. The research will aim to uncover practical solutions that balance these competing priorities while fostering sustainable urban ecosystems. Required Skills Applicants should have: * A Bachelor’s degree (for a Master’s position) and a Master’s degree (for a PhD position) in a relevant field, such as urban forestry, urban planning, geography, sociology, ecology/biology, environmental science, etc. * Strong GIS, remote sensing, and spatial analysis skills (or some documentable experience with GIS tools and the motivation to develop expert level spatial skills). * Experience with and interest in learning statistical analysis and coding (preferably in R). * Excellent writing and communication skills. * Ability to manage large datasets. * Interest in conducting fieldwork and traveling within British Columbia. * Passion for linking science to real-world challenges through equity-centered approaches. * Experience working within, or a strong understanding of, governance structures and processes in North American contexts, particularly as they relate to urban planning, environmental policy, and community engagement. * A valid driver’s license may be necessary to fulfill required tasks. Ideal Candidates We are looking for individuals who are: * Critical Thinkers and Problem Solvers: Capable of addressing complex challenges creatively and effectively. * Self-Driven and Motivated: Proactive in advancing research goals independently and collaboratively. * Team-Oriented: Skilled at working in interdisciplinary teams and engaging with external stakeholders. * Adaptable and Resilient: Comfortable navigating the dynamic nature of applied research. * Organized and Communicative: Able to coordinate meetings and communicate findings effectively. Why Join UESL? Our lab is committed to impactful research, blending rigorous science with applied solutions to urban challenges. We address pressing issues such as urban heat islands, climate resilience, and ecosystem services, while emphasizing equity and community engagement. Learn more about our work here: https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/cd59679e2ca143438512ee54257cc339 Compensation and Requirements Students must reside in the Metro Vancouver area for the duration of their program and qualify for the appropriate Visa (if applicable). Master’s students will receive a minimum stipend of $22,000 per year for 2 years. PhD students will receive a minimum stipend of $24,000 per year for 4 years. Housing and tuition are not included in the stipend. Students will also have the opportunity to apply for additional income by working as a Teaching Assistant at UBC. UBC offers various merit-based scholarships and awards. Students are encouraged to explore these and other options to supplement their funding: https://www.grad.ubc.ca/scholarships-awards-funding Application Process 1. Qualified applicants must apply to UBC Faculty of Forestry for a thesis-based degree before the deadline Feb 1, 2025 for a September 2025 start date. Please review the criteria, ensure you meet the required admission standards, and begin the process immediately. We can only consider applicants who have applied and are accepted to UBC in our final assessments. https://forestry.ubc.ca/future-students/graduate/ 1. Also, while you are starting your application to graduate school, email Dr. Melissa McHale (melissa.mch...@ubc.ca<mailto:melissa.mch...@ubc.ca>): 1. Please write “UESL Graduate Student Application 2025” in the Subject Line – any other subject heading may be misplaced and therefore not reviewed. 2. Include a brief cover letter highlighting your research interests, relevant skills, and motivation. Please address the full list of required skills (above) in bullet format within your letter. 3. Attach a CV or resume detailing your academic skill and achievements and professional background. 4. Include contact information for three references. We will not contact your references without first receiving confirmation from you it is ok to proceed with the review process. 5. Unofficial transcripts and a writing sample are valuable indicators in our assessment process. If you have them available, please include one or both of these attachments as well. Emailed applications (e.g., #2 above) will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Priority will be given to applicants that have sent an email with all of the required information by December 31, 2024. After you send an email with the required documentation, please do not send follow up emails regarding this application process. We already receive a large number of advising requests and unfortunately do not have the capacity to respond to every email. We will contact you if your skills and interests align well with our project goals. To unsubscribe from this list please go to https://community.esa.org/confirm/?u=RhPWqPxFwODKvbkiT32nkIqRrsiSgulp
