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Research Forester

The Research Forester’s primary objective is to develop and implement improved forest management practices and methods organization-wide. This is accomplished through collaborative research projects across a wide range of forests.

A Research Forester's work equips the organization with knowledge and science to better manage a stand. After conducting research, this individual provides science-based information and guidelines to operational foresters. 

The research conducted by forestry organizations almost always points back to a single goal: sustainability. 

This position may also be referred to as a research and development coordinator.

April Meeks

Research and Development Coordinator, Rayonier

It's motivating to be able to relate a living organism to mathematics in a way that allows you to make projections, through modeling, into the future. The coupling of analytical skills with being outside in the fresh air is challenging and rewarding. I am one of those personalities that need to be challenged and forestry fits the bill.

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Forestry, Forest Management, Silviculture, or a related field.

Helpful courses to take in high school include core science classes, computer science, mathematics, and business management courses.

Tools of the Trade

  • Computer and statistical software such as Microsoft Word, SAS, Python, and R.
  • Equipment used in measuring tree growth and volume, such as a laser hypsometer, diameter tape, clinometer, drones, and increment borers.
  • Special equipment depending on the type of research, such as a hydraulic lift for research done in the treetops.

Important Skills

This position requires strong communication skills, particularly with other researchers and scientists, to ensure field test sites are well selected, prepared, maintained, and documented.

Have a basic understanding of various forestry core competencies, such as stand and tree nutrition, tree physiology and genetics, soil types, growth and yield models, as well as silvicultural systems.

Computer skills are needed for preparing and managing contracts. Microsoft Office application and GIS skills, as well as how to navigate and utilize statistical software (SAS, R, and Python), are helpful.

Job Responsibilities

A Research Forester guides research on various aspects of the working forest, collecting data on silviculture, forest soils, tree physiology and genetics.

Data is transferred into growth and yield models for presentation to managers, silvicultural foresters, harvesting foresters, and other key stakeholders. The research is  compiled and developed into operating guidelines for the business.

The work that the Research Forester does helps to improve both the trees growing in the managed forests as well as the environment. This is a key position in meeting the sustainability goals of the forestry organization.

You can read more about how April got into forestry research by reading the article, "A 'Forestry Nerd' and Loving It."

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