Fully Funded PHD Positions

Planning Resilient Communities for People with Disabilities

Two fully-funded Ph.D. positions in planning are available as part of an LAEP-led $2,500,000 award from the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research. We are seeking students interested in joining a stellar team of faculty and students from multiple disciplines to develop a socio-ecological framework that aims to create more resilient communities for individuals living with disabilities. There are two distinct position offerings:
  • Theory and Policy: this position is oriented toward investigating and developing planning policies and strategies, coupled with best practices oriented toward individuals living with disabilities. The faculty leads for this project are Dr. Carlos Licon and Dr. Keith Christensen in collaboration with the Disability Disciplines.
  • Geospatial and Analytical Modelling: this position is oriented toward investigating models related to transportation, social networking, activities of community living, and geospatial science. This student will help oversee the integration of numerous planning models that will advance their computational skills and theoretical knowledge within community planning and scenario development. This study may also develop a user-friendly, online community planning tool. The faculty leads are Dr. Keun Park and Dr. Brent Chamberlain in collaboration with the Engineering College.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Must meet the minimum qualifications for the department
  • Master’s or Bachelor’s (with stellar record) 

Preferred Qualifications

  • Position #1: experience with planning theory and/or policy. Strong research skills in synthesizing literature and excellent written abilities.
  • Position #2: experience with geospatial modelling, web GIS, and other planning-related models. A strong quantitative background with an interest in data analytics.

Funding:

  • 4-year years at $15,000 – $17,000/yr. DOE
  • Tuition and health care also covered
  • Funded travel to conferences and meetings
  • Position includes your own computer

About Logan:

  • USU is situated in on the hills of Logan, located in the center of beautiful Cache Valley with over 120,000 residents. The valley is surrounded by two National Scenic Byways, with Salt Lake City one hour south and innumerable world-class recreational opportunities. Two blocks from USU is the 2,500 sq.mi. Wasatch-Cache National Forest. Logan annually ranks in the Top 10 college towns, and among America’s safest small towns. Cost of living is low; the public transportation system is free, and students can qualify for a free bicycle. Welcome to your next great adventure!
  • Application and Due Date: ASAP to facilitate our team planning; Please note that all applications for these positions will be reviewed by January 15th.
  • Questions about this opportunity? Contact the faculty leads listed above by visiting http://laep.usu.edu/directory/faculty