We are looking to offer one Ph.D. Graduate Research Assistant position for
the Fall of 2012. The general focus of this position will be in the Human
Dimensions of Marine and Coastal Ecosystems. The academic program of study
will be in the Coastal Resources Management Ph.D. Program, which is within
the Institute for Coastal Science and Policy (http://www.ecu.edu/crm/ and
http://www.ecu.edu/icsp/ICSP/Home.html).

Responsibilities: This is a quantitative human dimensions graduate
assistantship. The successful candidate will study within and meet the
requirements of the Coastal Resources Management Program, and in addition
be expected to focus on and acquire knowledge in the social and behavioral
sciences, and to apply this knowledge to coastal management topics. The
Coastal Resources Management Program requires a minor in either Coastal
Geosciences or Coastal Estuarine Ecology. The development of strong
research skills will be required. This will include the completion of
multiple research methods and statistics courses. The successful candidate
will also be expected to pursue publication in various appropriate
scholarly publication outlets, including refereed journals, conference
proceedings and technical reports, and to attend and participate in
national and regional professional conferences. Several research projects
are typically in progress, and the student will be expected to participate
in some or all of them. Self-motivation and independent work capabilities
are important. Some recent projects include 1) a study of SCUBA divers,
snorkelers and recreational fishermen as part of the Florida Reef
Resilience Program in the Florida Keys, 2) a comprehensive socioeconomic
study of recreation and tourism in the Florida Keys, 3) a study of
recreational consequences of coastal restoration at Zuma Beach, CA, and 4)
a review of the social and economic understanding of coastal erosion from
Maine to Chesapeake Bay. A current project is to study divers, anglers and
boaters in Biscayne Bay National Park, and to study users at Dry Tortugas
National Park.

Qualifications: 1) The ability to work collaboratively as a member of an
interdisciplinary team and to assume leadership roles for research
projects. 2) Masters in the behavioral sciences or natural resources
disciplines. 3) An ability to conduct research, with basic course work in
research methods and statistical applications completed. 4) Good
communication skills; good writing and public speaking abilities. 5)
Previous professional experience in the coastal environment is preferred,
but not required.

Compensation: Contingent on funding, the position will be available on or
before August 22, 2012. An annual stipend of $22,000 is provided for the
first year. Funding in subsequent years is likely, but not guaranteed.
With the stipend comes a waiver of tuition, and basic health care. It is
expected that the successful candidate will apply to become a resident of
North Carolina by the end of their first year in the Program (if
appropriate).

Contact: Send resume, letter of interest summarizing qualifications, and
three references to: David K. Loomis, Associate Professor, Institute for
Coastal Science and Policy, Flanagan Building, East Carolina University,
Greenville, NC 27858-4353.
Loomisd@ecu.edu>.
252-737-4263. Please feel free to contact me with questions. The
position will be advertised until filled.