USGS Scalable Aerial-Seeding Restoration to Enhance Military Readiness & Wildfire Resilience

Position Overview

The U.S. Geological Survey – Pacific Island Ecosystems Research Center (USGS-PIERC) is offering a 10‑week fellowship to perform research in large‑scale aerial seeding for restoration of Hawaiian dry forests.

Location:

Hilo, Hawaii. The appointment is full time and may be renewed.

• Biological soil crust propagation: maintain cultures, monitor growth, and prepare biocrust material for field application.
• Pre‑deployment preparation: organize and process seed mixes and soil amendments, support baseline data collection, and train to set up monitoring plots.
• Field seed deployment: participate in aerial seeding operations and train with the team.
• Baseline and follow‑up monitoring: collect data on vegetation, soils, and other ecosystem indicators before and after seed deployment.

• Field and technical skills: gain experience in dryland restoration techniques, biological soil crust propagation, field data collection, and ecosystem monitoring.
• Exposure to applied conservation research: observe and contribute to translating scientific findings into on‑ground restoration practice.
• Professional networking: collaborate with USGS scientists and land managers in restoration science.

• Currently pursuing or have received a bachelor’s or master’s degree in one of the following fields:
  Chemistry, Environmental Sciences, Earth and Geosciences, Engineering, Environmental and Marine Sciences, Life Health and Medical Sciences, Mathematics and Statistics, Physics, or related disciplines.
• Degree completed within the last 48 months or anticipated to be received by 6/1/2029.

• U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or qualifying foreign national per program guidelines.
• Eligibility for work in the United States; proof of health insurance may be required.

• Start date:
  
  Anticipated January 11, 2027 (flexible).
• Length: 10 weeks, may be renewed upon recommendation.
• Full time; stipend to be discussed upon interview.

Mentor:
Michala Phillips – mphillips. For additional questions: USGS (include reference code DOI‑USGS‑2026‑49).