The Auburn University DoctoralResearch Assistantship 2026 supports highly motivated graduate students (Doctoral) involved in a collaborative research project between Auburn University (USA) and the University of Northern British Columbia (Canada). This assistantship funds research in forest disturbance ecology and remote sensing, helping students pursue advanced degrees while contributing to interdisciplinary environmental science work.

About the Auburn University Doctoral Research Assistantship

This graduate research position focuses on understanding how interacting disturbances (e.g., windthrow, insect outbreaks, wildfire) and climate change shape forest ecosystems in northern British Columbia. Students will use field‑based forest surveys, dendroecology (tree growth analysis), and geospatial tools, including drone‑mounted LiDAR and satellite remote sensing, to study disturbance legacy effects on regeneration, stand structure, growth, and carbon dynamics. The project integrates theory and applied ecological management questions, giving broad research experience in ecology, quantitative analysis, and multi‑scale spatial assessment.

Why Choose The Auburn University Doctoral Research Assistantship?

  • Participate in a unique international research collaboration between Auburn University and the University of Northern British Columbia.
  • Conduct hands‑on ecological fieldwork in diverse forest environments under real‑world disturbance regimes.
  • Gain experience with advanced remote sensing and quantitative tools (e.g., LiDAR, GIS, R).
  • Strengthen your graduate profile through interdisciplinary research with faculty mentors from both institutions.
  • Enhance career prospects in research, conservation, forestry, and environmental science fields.

Auburn University Doctoral Research Assistantship Summary

  • Host Countries: United States (Auburn University) & Canada (University of Northern British Columbia)
  • Assistantship Name: Auburn University Doctoral Research Assistantship
  • Study Level: Doctoral (PhD) (Graduate Research)
  • Field: Forest disturbance ecology; remote sensing; spatial environmental science
  • Coverage: Funding anticipated (~$20,000 / yr plus research experience. Applicants may pursue additional scholarships or assistantships.
  • Application Deadline: 27 February 2026
  • Start Date: Between May and September 2026
  • Duration: 2–4 years, depending on PhD candidature
  • Location: Fieldwork in Prince George, British Columbia, Canada; academic affiliation with both Auburn University (USA) and UNBC (Canada)

Assistantship Benefits

  • Annual stipend (~$20,000) to support living costs (subject to final confirmation).
  • Opportunity to earn a Doctoral degree while participating in funded research.
  • Work with cutting‑edge geospatial technologies and ecological field methods.
  • Build a strong research portfolio with publications and practical ecological experience.
  • Collaborate with faculty and graduate students from two highly respected universities.

Eligibility Criteria

You should meet all of the following:

  • Hold a Master’s degree (for PhD) in forestry, ecology, geography, environmental science, or a related field.
  • Demonstrate interest in forest disturbance ecology and climate change research.
  • Show quantitative skills (e.g., statistics, GIS/remote sensing tools).
  • Be willing to conduct fieldwork in remote forest environments.
  • Meet the admission requirements of Auburn University and UNBC.

Required Documents

You should prepare and submit:

  • A brief statement of research interests outlining your motivations and fit for the project.
  • Your curriculum vitae (CV) or resume.
  • Unofficial academic transcripts from previous degree(s).
  • Contact information for references (professors or professionals familiar with your academic work).
  • Other materials requested by the departments of Auburn University or UNBC during the admissions process.

Application Process & Timeline

  1. Prepare your research statement, CV, and academic transcripts.
  2. Email these materials to the research contact (e.g., Dr. Violet Zhao at UNBC) as a single PDF by 27 February 2026.
  3. Wait for preliminary review and opportunity to join the project team.
  4. If selected, complete the admissions requirements for your graduate degree programme at Auburn University or UNBC.
  5. Accept the assistantship and prepare for the start of study and research (May–September 2026).