ECONOMETRIC MODELING

Econometric modeling the quantity of wooden pallets in circulation in the US.

 

Learn more and apply here!

Research Project Description: Wood is the most commonly used material for pallet production with a 95% market share. Each year, 839 million wooden pallets are manufactured and recycled across the US. Because wooden pallets store carbon that was captured during the lifetime of the tree, therefore, info on the total number of wooden pallets in circulation is essential to assess the sustainability of the industry.

The objective of this research project will be to conduct a material flow analysis supported by econometric modeling to estimate the accumulation of wooden pallets in the system since the 1970s.

What's expected of you? Selected graduate students will pursue their graduate degree thru the Department of Sustainable Biomaterials at Virginia Tech. Your responsibilities include:

  • Ability to conduct scientific research, independently.
  • Work 16 hours per week for CPULD as a Graduate Laboratory Manager.
  • Present research findings at scientific and industry conferences.
  • Represent CPULD at national conferences and meetings.

Funding Arrangements? If you choose to research topics for our industry partners, graduate assistantships with CPULD provide a living stipend of $27,000-$29,000 per year. This salary is in addition to paying the tuition for your graduate education through VT.

So, if the topic of this research assistantship interests you, you can earn your graduate degree for free!