Survey Methods and Use of Focus Groups for Valuation of Non-Market Goods and Services

Organization
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Reference Code
EPA-OP-NCEE-2015-03
How to Apply

A complete application consists of:

All documents must be in English or include an official English translation.

If you have questions, send an email to EPArpp@orau.org. Please include the reference code for this opportunity in your email.

Application Deadline
10/14/2015 11:00:00 AM Eastern Time Zone
Description

The goal of this project is to pursue focus group research in several areas of non-market valuation to improve our ability to estimate the economic benefits of environmental regulation. The intern will participate in research that involves the convening of focus groups to better understand how environmental amenities influence a variety of consumer decisions, including home purchases, choosing outdoor recreation destinations, and reducing the risks of adverse health outcomes. He/She will be involved in activities that may include:

  • Developing and carrying out surveys with focus groups.
  • Reviewing literature and developing summaries of the literature on non-market valuation surveys and use of focus groups to understand consumer behavior.
  • Collecting and assembling data obtained through convened focus groups.
  • Analyzing statistical and econometric data from focus groups.
  • Composing reports and summaries of findings.

The participant will be mentored by NCEE staff and will learn more about the methodological underpinnings and results of research in environmental economics. He/She will gain experience in effective communication to a variety of audiences and will learn about survey theories and techniques, as well as analytic methods and other practical considerations and factors that arise when conducting research using focus groups and surveys to value environmental benefits.

The mentor for this project is Chris Moore (moore.chris@epa.gov).

Qualifications

Applicants should have received a bachelor’s or master’s degree in either economics, applied mathematics, environmental studies, environmental policy, environmental science, or a closely related field within five years of the desired starting date, or completion of all requirements for the degree should be expected prior to the starting date.

The program is open to all qualified individuals without regard to race, sex, religion, color, age, physical or mental disability, national origin, or status as a Vietnam era or disabled veteran. U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status is preferred (but can also hold an appropriate visa status; however, an H1B visa is not appropriate).

The appointment is full time for a one year and may be renewed upon recommendation of EPA and contingent on the availability of funds. The participant will receive a monthly stipend. No funding will be made available to cover travel costs for interviews, relocation costs, costs of tuition/school fees, or a participant's health insurance. The participant must show proof of health and medical insurance. The participant does not become an EPA employee.

 

Eligibility Requirements
  • Degree: Bachelor's Degree or Master's Degree received within the last 60 month(s).
  • Discipline(s):
    • Earth and Geosciences (1 )
    • Environmental and Marine Sciences (1 )
    • Mathematics and Statistics (1 )
    • Social and Behavioral Sciences (3 )
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