Graduate Research Assistant-Urban Forestry

Virginia Wesleyan University • Virginia Beach, VA

11d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Batten University Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences is seeking a Batten University graduate student to assist part-time with the research project “Community Based Urban Heat Island Mitigation in Portsmouth VA and Surrounding Areas”. The student will help organize community tree planting events in Portsmouth Virginia in fall 2026. The student will assist with planning and executing the campaigns, including recruiting and communicating with volunteers, community members, and partner organizations as well as selecting, transporting, and planting of trees. Additional responsibilities may include picking up trees from suppliers in Hampton Roads, creating outreach materials for the local community and schools, and GIS mapping of the study area. Some work will have the option to be remote, but the student will be required to be in the Portsmouth area for the planting campaigns which may occur on weekdays or weekends. There will also be some in person meetings and volunteer recruitment events in Portsmouth leading up to the events.

Requirements

• Graduate student enrolled in good standing in Batten University’s Masters in Environmental Studies (MEnv) program.
• Minimum GPA (graduate) of 3.0. Or, for students just entering the program an undergraduate GPA of 3.2.
• Availability to assist with the project for an average of 5-10 hours per week from August 10, 2026 - December 11, 2026.
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills.
• Ability to maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 in the MEnv program.
• Ability to stand for extended periods of time, safely lift up to 50 pounds, bend or squat, dig, and plant small and medium trees.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of basic tree planting techniques
• Knowledge of ArcGIS

Responsibilities

• Organize community tree planting events in Portsmouth Virginia.
• Assist with planning and executing tree planting campaigns.
• Recruit and communicate with volunteers, community members, and partner organizations.
• Select, transport, and plant trees.
• Pick up trees from suppliers in Hampton Roads.
• Create outreach materials for the local community and schools.
• Perform GIS mapping of the study area.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level