I have the capacity to handle one or two additional graduate students, but have no funding at this time. I will be on study leave through December 2009 and there might be an opportunity for a student to work with me during that period (the leave is local) on a State of the Triangle's Ecosystem report in cooperation with Triangle Land Conservancy. This project will begin during July 2009, so a student starting in Fall, 2009, could join me for this project. Otherwise, I would prefer to wait until calendar year 2010 before starting any new graduate students.

I'm particularly keen on attracting students interested in the ecological and planning aspects of green infrastructure in suburbanizing regions, and the use of suburban green spaces by wildlife. The interface between science and policy is intriguing, and I've been collaborating with one of our other faculty members, Toddi Steelman, in this arena. Finally, I'd like to continue working on the Greenways for Wildlife project, with either birds or herps.

My research web page documents the projects I'm working on, but I'm very open to new ideas in related areas.

I'd like to work with someone who has a strong interest in teaching to develop a service-learning course for undergraduate students in forestry, natural resources, and environmental technology.

I currently do not have designated funding for new graduate students, but there are a few things in the pipeline that could provide funding starting in January 2010. There are an extremely limited number of departmental fellowships available, because of the current global economic situation. These fellowships are quite competitive, and applicants must have excellent grades and letters of recommendation to be considered.

Generally, I will not accept students unless I can pay them a stipend. I will consider students who are able to pay their own way, but only after extended discussion of their situation.

You can see a brief description of what my graduate students have done in my CV.

If you are interested in working with me, please contact me (See Contact Information). Be as specific as you can about the kind of research and teaching you're interested in.

Best wishes,
george hess