Post-Doctoral Research Associate

UT School of Natural Resources

The School of Natural Resources and USDA Forest Service Forest Inventory and Analysis are collaborating on a project to assess the Timber Product Output (TPO) sample methodology for estimating county and state level production, state receipts, wood flow, and the amount and distribution of mill residues. The current methodology provides robust estimates of state production estimates and average county production when non-response and frame error are ignored. Estimates of other TPO quantities such as volume by species group and by-product distribution of mill residue show larger uncertainties. The project will identify and evaluate alternative sample designs and sample frequencies to accomplish a desired level of certainty across population estimates of those TPO elements. Potential alternatives include incorporating a spatial component, introducing a multivariate design, and/or applying a stratified rank set technique, among others. The finalist will have the opportunity to interact closely with the multi-disciplinary team within the USDA Forest Service and University of Tennessee, and will be expected to write manuscripts for academic journals, participate in regular collaboration meetings, and present results at meetings and academic conferences.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS: Ph.D. in forest biometrics, forest economics, statistics, or other similar fields. Demonstrated experience in sample design and statistical modeling and a publication record in peer reviewed journals. Demonstrated experience with Stata, R, Python, Matlab, or similar software or languages.

COMPENSATION AND TIMELINE: This is an exempt, regular, full benefits position, with grant funding secured for an initial period of one year and offers a competitive salary. This position is based at the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture in Knoxville, Tennessee, though remote work will be considered. Application Deadline, September 1, 2024; hire date negotiable. The UT School of Natural Resources is committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment for all.

TO APPLY: Submit a one-page cover letter summarizing research interests and experience with sample design and statistical modeling, a curriculum vitae, copies of academic transcripts, and full contact information of three professional references through the University’s applicant tracking system. Questions regarding the position may be directed to Dr. Don Hodges (dhodges2@utk.edu).