If you are looking for fully funded MS and PhD positions in forest ecology at Utah State University, this opportunity stands out as one of the most impactful and well-supported graduate programs available for 2026 and beyond. Utah State University’s Quinney College of Agriculture and Natural Resources is actively recruiting one MS student and one PhD student to join its prestigious National Needs Fellows (NNF) cohort. These positions focus on critical research in disturbance ecology, fire ecology, and forest health across the Intermountain West, with direct ties to U.S. Forest Service Region 4 disaster recovery efforts.
With climate change intensifying wildfires, insect outbreaks, and other disturbances threatening forests throughout the western United States, the demand for trained scientists who can translate research into practical management solutions has never been higher. These fully funded roles offer the chance to contribute to science that shapes real-world forest resilience while receiving exceptional financial support, mentorship, and professional development.
Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: USA
- Host University: Utah State University
- Scholarship Type: MSC Scholarships/PhD Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: All Countries
- Scholarship Benefits: Full tuition fee, Living stipend, etc.
Why Forest Disturbance and Fire Ecology Research Matters More Than Ever
Forests in the Intermountain West face mounting pressures from both biotic disturbances, such as bark beetle infestations, and abiotic disturbances, including drought, wildfire, and extreme weather. These events do not occur in isolation. Understanding their combined effects on forest structure, composition, and long-term trajectories is essential for effective management.
The PhD research will quantify how silviculture treatments and management activities influence forest recovery in areas affected by one or both types of disturbance. It will also work to identify the joint drivers of these disturbances across broad landscapes. The MS project will evaluate the effectiveness of fire risk reduction strategies specifically in mixed-conifer forests. Both projects directly support Forest Service Region 4 priorities for disaster recovery and sustainable resource management.
This work has immediate applications for land managers, policymakers, private landowners, and communities seeking to reduce wildfire risk and promote resilient forests. Graduates from such programs often move into roles with the U.S. Forest Service, other federal and state agencies, universities, consulting firms, and conservation organizations.
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The National Needs Fellows Program at Utah State University
Utah State University has designed these positions as part of a USDA-funded National Needs Fellows initiative. The goal is to develop the next generation of leaders in forest resources and disaster recovery. Students will participate in a structured cohort experience that goes beyond traditional research.
Mandatory activities include teamwork development, leadership training through seminars and extension work, mentoring skill-building, and hands-on training with state-of-the-art tools and techniques. Faculty mentors guide these experiences, ensuring students graduate not only as strong scientists but also as effective communicators and leaders prepared for diverse careers.
The program emphasizes publishing in peer-reviewed journals, maintaining high-quality databases, and presenting research to varied audiences ranging from scientists to policymakers and landowners. This holistic training makes the NNF experience at USU particularly valuable.
PhD Position Details (Howe Lab) – 5 Years of Funding
The PhD student will join the lab of Dr. Michael Howe, Assistant Professor of Forest Health in the Department of Wildland Resources. The core objectives are to:
- Quantify and monitor how management activities and silviculture treatments affect forest structure and recovery trajectories in areas impacted by biotic disturbance, abiotic disturbance, or both.
- Elucidate the joint drivers of biotic and abiotic disturbances across the Intermountain West.
This research combines field work, advanced analytical approaches, and landscape-scale analysis. Students will collaborate closely with a team of faculty that includes Dr. Larissa Yocom, Dr. Justin DeRose, and Dr. Catrin Edgeley. The position provides five years of funding at an annual stipend of $24,500, plus full tuition, fees, health insurance, and a travel allowance.
MS Position Details (Yocom Lab) – 2 Years of Funding
The MS student will work under the supervision of Dr. Larissa Yocom, a leading fire ecologist in the Department of Wildland Resources and the Ecology Center. The primary focus is investigating the effectiveness of fire risk reduction strategies in mixed-conifer forests of the Intermountain West.
This project offers excellent opportunities for field-based research, data analysis, and direct contributions to management recommendations. The position includes two years of funding at an annual stipend of $23,500, along with the same comprehensive benefits package of tuition, fees, insurance, and travel support.
Exceptional Funding Package and Support
Both positions are fully funded graduate assistantships. Students receive:
- Competitive annual stipends ($23,500 for MS; $24,500 for PhD)
- Full tuition coverage
- Health insurance
- Travel allowance for conferences and fieldwork
The total value of this package is substantial and allows students to focus fully on their research and professional development without financial stress. Review of applications begins immediately and continues until the positions are filled, with a listed deadline of April 14, 2027. Start dates are as early as August 2026.
Collaborative Faculty Team and Professional Development
Students will benefit from a highly collaborative environment involving multiple expert faculty members. This team approach provides broad exposure to different research perspectives and methods in forest ecology, entomology, fire science, and disturbance dynamics.
Beyond research, the NNF cohort activities build critical transferable skills. Students develop leadership capabilities, learn to communicate science effectively to non-technical audiences, and gain mentoring experience. These elements prepare graduates for successful careers in academia, government agencies, NGOs, and the private sector.
Opportunities to present work to private landowners, policymakers, and the scientific community are built into the program, helping students build professional networks early.
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Eligibility and Preferred Qualifications
PhD applicants should hold an MS degree in forestry, entomology, ecology, or a closely related field. MS applicants should hold a BS or BA in forestry, ecology, biology, or a related discipline.
Highly qualified candidates with degrees in other fields will also be considered. Preferred qualifications include strong qualitative and quantitative skills plus field experience. The program values diverse backgrounds and perspectives that can contribute to innovative solutions in forest management and disaster recovery.
While the National Needs Fellows program supports U.S. workforce development in forest resources, interested candidates from all backgrounds are encouraged to contact the advisors directly to discuss eligibility and fit.
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How to Apply for These Utah State University Graduate Positions
Applications are submitted directly to the faculty advisors rather than through a central portal. To apply, email the following materials to Dr. Michael Howe (mike.howe@usu.edu) or Dr. Larissa Yocom (larissa.yocom@usu.edu):
- A cover letter describing your experience, research interests, and fit with the specific project goals (PhD applicants should address both project objectives A and B; MS applicants should focus on fire risk reduction).
- A current CV or resume.
- Unofficial transcripts.
- Contact information for three professional references.
View the complete official posting here: https://jobs.rwfm.tamu.edu/view-job/?id=115675
Application tips for success:
- Clearly connect your background and interests to the specific research goals outlined for each position.
- Highlight any field experience, quantitative skills (statistics, modeling, GIS, remote sensing), or relevant coursework.
- Demonstrate enthusiasm for applied research that supports land management and policy.
- Apply as soon as possible—review is ongoing and positions may fill quickly.
For more information about the Department of Wildland Resources, visit https://qanr.usu.edu/wild/.
Why Utah State University and Logan, Utah?
Utah State University offers a supportive, research-intensive environment within the beautiful Cache Valley. Logan provides easy access to diverse forest ecosystems, national forests, and field research sites across the Intermountain West. The university’s strong connections with the U.S. Forest Service and other agencies create additional opportunities for collaboration, data access, and career pathways.
Students enjoy a high quality of life with abundant outdoor recreation, a welcoming community, and the resources of a major research university.
Take the Next Step Toward Your Career in Forest Ecology
These fully funded MS and PhD positions in forest ecology, disturbance ecology, and fire ecology at Utah State University represent a rare combination of financial support, impactful research, collaborative mentorship, and structured professional development. Whether your goal is to advance scientific understanding of forest disturbances, develop practical management tools, or build a career in academia or natural resource agencies, this program provides an outstanding foundation.
Do not wait until the formal deadline. Contact Dr. Michael Howe or Dr. Larissa Yocom today to express your interest and submit your application materials. Early applicants have the best chance of securing one of these limited, highly competitive spots.
For the latest updates on similar graduate opportunities in ecology, forestry, and natural resources, explore additional resources on our site.