The lab currently can supervise PhD students, NOT masters students.
Possible PhD topic areas and a description of the lab’s mentoring style are available at https://benjaminblonder.org/join/mentoring-approach/. Applicants with a demonstrated interest in community outreach, education, or diversity/equity/inclusion work are especially encouraged. Current research themes are described at https://benjaminblonder.org/research/.
The lab provides a supportive and inclusive environment for members of all life experiences to develop independence as scientists and as engaged citizens. We build teams with people who have the capacity to succeed, rather than those who have always succeeded before. The lab provides close mentoring support via regular meetings, an open-door policy, 360° feedback sessions, and a strong learning community bringing together undergraduate students, graduate students, and postdoctoral researchers.
About the program
Students can join the lab through the PhD program in the Department of Environmental Science, Policy, and Management (ESPM) at the University of California – Berkeley (https://ourenvironment.berkeley.edu/). The ESPM program offers a chance to work with award-winning faculty in climate science, biodiversity, environmental policy, land use, and community outreach. The program also provides opportunities to interact with other parts of the university, e.g. the Energy and Resources Group, Agricultural and Resource Economics, the Goldman School of Public Policy, the Department of Integrative Biology, and the University of California Museum of Paleontology, as well as to access the University of California’s Natural Reserve system. More information on the graduate program can be found at https://ourenvironment.berkeley.edu/graduate-programs/degrees/the-phd-program. The GRE is not required for admission. Admission can be challenging this year due to the small size of the graduate program, but prospective students are welcome to explore an application.
Admitted students are guaranteed five years of financial support (annually, two semesters’ stipend + tuition). Students can also find further independent funding; the lab will cover conference + summer costs as grant resources allow. We have had a good track record of helping students obtain independent funding.
Funding resources
NSF Graduate Research Fellowship (GRFP)