*PhD Research Assistantship: Residential Outdoor Water Conservation* *Preferred start date: January 2013 (later date negotiable)* ** A position is available for a Ph.D. student to assist with research that will examine the influence of policy and outreach efforts on local residents' adoption of water conservation and stormwater strategies in the residential landscapes of the Ipswich and Parker River watershed north of Boston. The Ipswich is considered one of the most threatened rivers in the US, due to polluted stormwater runoff and overdraft of water by local communities. Other comparison communities may be included in the study. Through this research, we seek to trace watershed conservation measures from policy incentives to impact so as to develop a clearer picture of the relationship between local policy and outreach efforts, actual decisions to engage and install residential landscape water conservation practices, and measureable improvements in water conservation and ecosystem health. The objective is to develop improved understandings of institutional and behavioral impacts on water conservation.
The successful candidate should have a master’s degree in landscape architecture, hydrology, ecology, environmental science, regional planning or a related discipline. Master’s students in their last year of study (or with considerable experience in the field) who plan to continue on for a Ph.D. will be considered. Direct knowledge and experience in water supply or utility functioning, water efficiency, low-impact development strategies, policy, and economics is highly desirable. S/he will also be familiar with a range of qualitative and quantitative research methods including conducting and analyzing interviews and surveys, database management, and GIS. Good communication and presentation skills are essential. A valid driver’s license is also needed. The candidate can seek to obtain a degree through either the Department of Landscape Architecture and Regional Planning or the Department of Environmental Conservation at University of Massachusetts Amherst. Funding available includes 2-year’s stipend and graduate school tuition/fees, with additional funding possible. To apply or request further information, email a cover letter and CV (or resume) to Robert Ryan ([email protected]), Anita Milman ( [email protected]), and Allison Roy ([email protected]). Application to and acceptance via the University of Massachusetts Graduate School ( http://www.umass.edu/gradschool/) is required.
