The Department of Earth, Environment, and Planning at East Carolina University (ECU) has opened applications for a fully funded PhD position in the Integrated Coastal Sciences program and a fully funded Master’s position in Geography. The programs are set to begin in Fall 2026.
The positions are supervised by Dr. Guangxiao Hu, whose research focuses on spatial analysis, environmental and energy justice, and sustainable development.
Selected students will join his research team as Research Assistants (RAs) and will receive full tuition coverage, a stipend, and health benefits.
According to the announcement, the research will explore key topics such as spatial econometrics, human–environment interactions, and environmental policy evaluation. Students will also engage in data-driven decision-making and contribute to frameworks addressing pollution, equity, and energy transition.
Successful candidates will develop and apply quantitative and qualitative methods to study the socio-economic impacts of coastal energy development.
They will also help build frameworks to understand public perceptions of coastal energy and examine inequalities in pollution exposure near coastal energy facilities.
Applicants are expected to hold a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in geography, coastal sciences, environmental sciences, data sciences, or related disciplines.
The university also prefers candidates with strong quantitative and analytical skills in areas such as econometrics, statistics, and spatial analysis.
Additional qualifications include experience in programming languages like R or Python, as well as interests in environmental sustainability, equity, and spatial thinking.
Located in Greenville, North Carolina, East Carolina University is a R1 (Very High Research Activity) public research institution under the University of North Carolina system.
The university is recognized for its dedication to student success, community engagement, and interdisciplinary research tackling real-world problems.
Interested applicants are required to send a letter of intent, CV, and academic transcripts to Dr. Guangxiao Hu ([email protected]) by December 15, 2025. The review process will continue until all positions are filled. The final application deadline for admission to ECU is January 15, 2026.
