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Working/Functional Title

Postdoctoral Researcher - Pokharel Lab

Position Summary

The Department of Forestry at Michigan State University (MSU), in collaboration with US Forest Service, Forest Products Laboratory (FPL), is seeking an outstanding Research Associate (Postdoctoral Researcher) to lead and work on a research project focused on estimating the potential avoided greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from historical use of both wood in construction sector and use of woody biomass in the energy sector in the United States. The successful candidate is expected to author/co‐author publications based on new and secondary data and assist in managing the project (including supervision of undergraduate assistants and overseeing data collection and analysis). The position holds the potential for extending research in new directions and to collaboratively pursue additional research funding. The position also holds the potential to increase the candidate’s professional network and work closely with the MSU and FPL. MSU’s strengths in human dimensions and forest economics and FPL provide a collaborative environment that supports success. The position will begin as a one‐year appointment with available extensions, depending on continued funding availability.

The position will be based at Michigan State University in East Lansing, MI, USA. MSU strives to provide a flexible work environment and this position has been designated as remote-friendly. Some or all the duties can be performed remotely as mutually agreed upon. Some opportunity for travel may be available. The candidate will work closely with project PIs and a team of scientists at FPL and MSU.

Desired start date is early in 2026, but a later start may be possible. ABD candidates expected to graduate in May 2026 will be considered. Questions about the position should be directed to Dr. Prakash Nepal at FPL ([email protected]) or to Dr. Raju Pokharel ([email protected]).

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Degree

Doctorate -Forestry, Nat. Resources, Env Sci

Minimum Requirements

The successful candidate will have an earned PhD in Forestry, Natural Resources, Environmental Sciences, Economics, Engineering or a related discipline; and strong skills in written and verbal communication.

Desired Qualifications

The ideal candidate for this position will have experience with life cycle analysis (LCA) research and ability to interpret and use data and results from published LCA literature in estimating avoided emissions resulting from wood use in construction and woody biomass use in generating energy. They will also have documented ability to bring projects to completion (publication record, both academic and outreach), evidence of effective independent and collaborative work, and project management experience.

Required Application Materials

Upload the following required documents: 1) a short letter of interest detailing qualifications for the position and research interests (no more than two pages), 2) curriculum vitae, 3) a writing sample (preferably a journal article or dissertation chapter), and 4) a list of three professional references with contact information (institution, email address, phone number).

Special Instructions

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Review of Applications Begins On

01/05/2026

Remote Work Statement

MSU strives to provide a flexible work environment and this position has been designated as remote-friendly. Remote-friendly means some or all of the duties can be performed remotely as mutually agreed upon.

Website

FOR.MSU.EDU

Department Statement

At MSU Forestry, our mission is to generate and translate knowledge of trees, forests and associated natural and human systems to advance sustainable solutions for people and ecosystems. We create the future of sustainable forestry through innovative research, learning and outreach. We value the uniqueness that every person adds. Faculty and staff are committed to fostering open dialogue and supportive communication. We agree with and support College and University initiatives that are designed to create a community committed to culture, access and belonging.

MSU Statement

Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.