Project Mentor
Dr. Sohyun Park
Department: Plant Science & Landscape Architecture
Project Overview:
I am seeking a research assistant to support an on-going research project on accessible nature and nature inclusive landscapes in urban areas. The project aims to assess the presence of naturalized landscapes in urban areas, access to those spaces, and the opportunities and threats to inclusive landscapes in the development of vacant lots, particularly city-owned and landbank properties. We will explore these facets across various local, administrative, planning, and policy contexts.
Role of a SHARE Summer Apprentice:
The SHARE apprentice will primarily work on the development of nature-inclusive design guidelines for ecologically, socially, and ethically responsible development of vacant lots and land bank properties. This will require gathering data, analysis of research conducted thus far in regards to zoning restrictions, and developing sample design and planting plans. Common tasks will include literature searches, case studies, searching zoning codes and ordinances and compiling pertinent excerpts, coding and summarizing data, creating GIS maps, drafting analysis, researching ecological design practices, creating diagrams and charts, and preparing presentations. Additional tasks related to research will be completed as needed. The apprentice will gain valuable research experience, particularly in creating public facing educational materials, literature and policy review methods and analysis, writing reports and planting plans, and GIS mapping. This project will require virtual meetings with the interdisciplinary research team and community partners. All activities for this position will be completed remotely.
The SHARE apprentice will have weekly meetings with myself and my doctoral students to check in on progress of work and discuss methods of data collection, analysis and presentation. The SHARE apprentice will receive initial training on data management and analysis. We will create a workplan with a weekly schedule and goals. We use Microsoft Teams to communicate regularly, ask questions, receive clarification, etc. The SHARE apprentice will regularly receive feedback on work performed, and we will discuss opportunities for co-authorship on articles and presentations.
Summer Schedule/Time Commitment:
Ideally, the SHARE research apprentice will work on this project 10-15hrs/week and will participate in weekly meetings. However, the hours will be flexible and may be weighed more heavily in the beginning of the summer. We may skip some weeks depending on the summer holidays and other responsibilities.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Students studying landscape architecture, plant science, environmental science, or urban studies.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English (required) and Spanish (preferred).
- Motivated, able to work independently, able to stick to a schedule and follow through on commitments, detail oriented.
- Ability to work as part of a team.
- High level of comfort using a computer, phone, and/or other research equipment.
- Adept in Adobe Creative Cloud and familiarity with GIS.
- Strong familiarity/comfort with MS Teams and One Drive
To Apply:
The application is closed.