A Masters of Science assistantship is available at the University of Idaho to study genetic variability in drought resistance of interior Douglas-fir in northern Idaho. The student will join the Center for Forest Nursery and Seedling Research (CFNSR) and will be supervised by Dr. Andrew Nelson. The assistantship includes a competitive stipend, waiver of out-of-state tuition, full coverage of in-state tuition and student health insurance. Additional funds are available for research supplies and travel. Funding is available for 2 years as a research assistantship.

The student will work on a project examining genetic variability of interior Douglas-fir as part of a second-generation Douglas-fir tree improvement program. Seedlings are being grown from various controlled crosses of different ramets selected for superior growth and form in a tree orchard at the Franklin H. Pitkin Forest Nursery. Most of the seedlings are destined for progeny test sites, but additional seedlings will be available to evaluate genetic variability of various drought resistance and drought avoidance traits. Additional measurements will include evaluation of cold tolerance and growth potential. Parent ramets are available at the nearby tree seed orchard to measure drought and cold traits. The student will conduct a controlled drought experiment in a greenhouse and potentially collect additional data at progeny test sites located in North-Central Idaho. Results from the research will contribute to ongoing tree improvement efforts in the Inland Northwest and lead to new understanding of potential trade-offs in growth and stress tolerance as variability in drought and other abiotic factors continue across the region.

The student will frequently interact with scientists, forest managers, and tree improvement professionals at scientific conferences, regional outreach events, and conversations with collaborators. The student is expected to publish their results in peer-reviewed journals. The student will have access to laboratories, field sites, and greenhouses at the University of Idaho and across North-Central Idaho. The labs are fully outfitted with equipment to measure plant physiology and morphology.

Required qualifications include a B.S. degree in forestry, plant ecophysiology, botany, or closely related discipline and an interest in working in forestry or tree improvement in the future. The successful candidate will demonstrate an ability to work both independently and as a team member, and be comfortable traveling and working in the greenhouse, lab, and field. The student must be able to pass a criminal background.

The student is expected to begin August 17, 2025. The position is based in Moscow, Idaho, home to the University of Idaho. Moscow is in northern Idaho on the border with Washington in a region known as the Palouse. The area offers ample outdoor recreational opportunities within a short distance from Moscow.