The University of Arkansas Monticello Graduate Research Assistantship offers qualified applicants the opportunity to pursue a Master of Science in Forest Resources with an emphasis on Wildlife Management.
The scholarship supports research focused on wetland reforestation, carbon sequestration and waterfowl habitat conservation.
Hosted by the Snowden Waterfowl Center of Excellence, the programme combines advanced academic study with practical research, preparing graduates for careers in geospatial science, conservation planning, ecological restoration and forest carbon management.
About the University of Arkansas Monticello Scholarship
The Graduate Research Assistant position is based within the College of Forestry, Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of Arkansas at Monticello.
Successful applicants will conduct research on the spatial arrangement of bottomland hardwood reforestation and its impact on habitat suitability for waterfowl. The project also involves developing an ArcGIS online decision-support tool to identify priority areas for reforestation while maximising environmental benefits.
The scholarship provides funding for up to three years while students complete their Master’s degree.
Scholarship Benefits
Successful applicants will receive:
- Annual research stipend.
- Tuition waiver.
- Funding for up to three years.
- Practical experience in geospatial modelling and conservation research.
- Opportunities to work with experienced researchers at the Snowden Waterfowl Center of Excellence.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree in geospatial sciences, geography, wildlife management, conservation or a related discipline.
- Meet the University’s minimum GPA requirement.
- Possess a valid U.S. driver’s licence or obtain one within 60 days of employment.
- Be willing to participate in fieldwork, including overnight travel and outdoor research.
Preferred Qualifications
Preference will be given to applicants with experience in:
- Wildlife ecology and conservation.
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
- Remote sensing and spatial modelling.
- Landscape ecology.
- Programming languages such as Python or R.
- Carbon accounting, forestry or ecosystem restoration.
Research Focus
The research project examines how wetland reforestation can improve habitats for migratory waterfowl while increasing carbon sequestration across the Mississippi Alluvial Valley.
Students will gain practical experience in:
- Spatial modelling.
- Decision-support systems.
- Wildlife habitat analysis.
- Forest carbon applications.
- Ecological restoration planning.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should prepare the following documents:
- Cover letter.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) or résumé.
- List of professional references.
Applications should be submitted to Dr Douglas Osborne as instructed by the University before the application deadline.
Application Deadline
July 31, 2026