32 jobs found

Future Earth, the National Center for Ecological Analysis and Synthesis (NCEAS), and the Colorado State University Global Biodiversity Center, are partnering to fill two postdoctoral positions for ocean sustainability science, to be based at NCEAS in Santa Barbara, California. BACKGROUND PEGASuS 2: Ocean Sustainability, is a partnership between Future Earth, National Center for Ecological Analysis and Synthesis (NCEAS), and Global Biodiversity Center at Colorado State University. Our vision is to accelerate transformations to a more sustainable and equitable planet by drawing on collective knowledge. Recognizing that the research community on its own cannot adequately address these challenges, we are partnering to support two ocean sustainability working groups involving not only researchers, but also innovators in policy, business and civil society to generate research that meets society’s needs. Two postdoctoral researchers will be based at NCEAS in Santa Barbara, California. Each postdoc will participate in the research of one or both of the Future Earth-NCEAS working groups, depending on experience and interest, as well as conduct independent research related to ocean sustainability. Postdocs will also work with the Future Earth Secretariat in key synthesis and coordinating roles associated with the Ocean Knowledge-Action Network (KAN), a global network of ocean sustainability researchers and practitioners. The Ocean KAN is sponsored by Future Earth, UNESCO-IOC, SCOR, and the WCRP. These positions will give post-docs significant opportunities to maximize the impact of their research, and to work at the interface of international science and policy with the Ocean KAN, the NCEAS working groups and through major global science-policy initiatives such as the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Research related to the Future Earth NCEAS working groups (30-50% time) Each postdoctoral researcher will participate in the work of one or both of the Future Earth-NCEAS working groups (see below), as appropriate based on experience and interest. Each applicant must specify his or her interest in either or both of the working groups. Additional information on either project can be made available. Independent research (20-40% of time) Each postdoctoral researcher will be afforded significant time to pursue his or her own research interests, publish independent research in peer review journals, attend scientific conferences, and apply for research grants. Future Earth Secretariat - synthesis and coordination (20-40% time). Each postdoctoral researcher will work with the Future Earth Secretariat, and the Ocean Knowledge Action Network (KAN) leadership to develop ocean research and action products in association with major Future Earth research, synthesis and assessment processes, and to support the development and growth of the Ocean KAN. RESIDENCY AT NCEAS: NCEAS is located in scenic downtown Santa Barbara, California. The Center is known for fostering interaction and collaboration, a characteristic that leads to the success of its visiting scientists. NCEAS has a growing and thriving community of postdocs, resident scientists, and analysts, and frequent influx of leading scientists and practitioners from around the world participating in working group projects across a diverse range of initiatives. We expect that postdocs will contribute their knowledge, interests, and enthusiasm to the intellectual atmosphere. The postdoc should anticipate spending the vast majority of their time in residence at the Center and will have the opportunity to travel to relevant national and international events and conferences. TRAVEL: Both post-doctoral researchers will be included as a part of the Future Earth Secretariat (associated with the Global Hub in Colorado and the Ocean KAN) and will be expected to travel internationally to attend, present, and support at key Future Earth meetings and workshops. International travel may also be required in association with the Future Earth-NCEAS working groups. All work-related travel expenses will be supported by NCEAS and Future Earth. QUALIFICATIONS: Required● Ph.D. in marine science, environmental science, ecology, or a relevant disciplineAdditional● Strong analytical skills including data science, database management and data visualization● Ability to review and synthesize large amounts of literature and complex information● Strong communication and interpersonal skills● Strong organizational skills● Ability to design, manage, and help lead workshops to bring disparate groups together● Ability to take initiative and work both independently and as part of a globally distributed research network● Knowledge in policy, management, economics, and/or other social science relevant to the coastal zonePreferred● Strong publication record● Experience working with groups outside of academia (industry, NGOs, etc.), and international working experience. FUNDING SUPPORT PEGASuS is funded in part by the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation’s Science Program and the NOMIS Foundation. PEGASuS is jointly administered by Future Earth and Colorado State University's Global Biodiversity Center. Postdoctoral researchers will be based at NCEAS in Santa Barbara, California. TO APPLYPlease apply through UC Recruit: https://recruit.ap.ucsb.edu/apply/JPF01425 INSTRUCTIONSPlease submit the following required documents via UC Recruit:-CV-Cover Letter-Contact information for three references-Statement of Research-A short (3 page) proposal of research you would want to conduct as part of your independent project. We expect projects to primarily be synthesis and/or analysis research; the proposal should include a short section setting the context and motivating the work, a main section explaining the research questions, methods, and data that will be used, and a short final section that addresses expected applied implications of the work. APPLY BY:12/21/18 (for primary consideration)Positions will remain open until filled. Positions to start as soon as possible. WORKING GROUP PROJECT DESCRIPTIONS Project 1: Defining the observing system for the world’s oceans - from microbes to whales A globally coordinated and sustained ocean observing system is urgently needed to systematically assess the status of the ocean's biodiversity and ecosystems and how these are responding to increasing resource use, including coastal development under long-term climate change scenarios. Based on a set of measurable biological characteristics or “biological essential ocean variables" derived from the requirements of 24 multilateral environmental agreements, existing monitoring capabilities and scientific and societal impact, scientists at NCEAS will design a monitoring network to answer specific scientific questions on high priority global phenomena in response to calls for guidance from policy makers and managers. By mapping the current spatial extent of observations for these essential variables, from microbes to whales and coastal ecosystems to the deep sea, the scientists will identify how to capitalize on what is already being achieved and what remains to be done to develop a globally coordinated, fit for purpose, and sustained ocean observing system. Scientists will also develop a roadmap to ensure that products maximally support monitoring progress against the Convention on Biological Diversity 2050 Vision, Agenda 2030 and other critical international agreements including scientific platforms related to climate change, biodiversity, and ecosystem services as well as the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development. The roadmap will include where current indicators can be updated to make better use of scientific information and impact the future development of scientific priorities.Principal investigators: Nic Bax (University of Tasmania), Daniel Dunn (Duke University), Patricia Miloslavich (Simon Bolivar University) Project 2: Managing Ocean Change and Food Security: Implementing Palau’s National Marine Sanctuary One of the most acute challenges for ocean nations and coastal communities is food andnutritional security, including sustaining wild capture fisheries in a time of rapid and profoundchange in the oceans and in the global food sector. Palau’s commitment to protect ocean ecosystems and resources for its people, demonstrated in a policy to close 80% of its EEZ in 2020, provides an unprecedented opportunity to take a systems approach to tackling this complex and urgent challenge. The Government of Palau has asked us to convene a working group to synthesize existing research and create a portfolio of policy and management options supporting food security and marine resource sustainability in the context of the new closure. The proposed working group will be guided by a policy committee of ministers and other senior government policymakers from Palau and other Pacific Island nations to ensure that its work meets the needs and priorities of government decision-making, and develops avenues for impact at scale, within the broader western Pacific region.Principal investigator: Fiorenza Micheli (Stanford University) The department is especially interested in candidates who can contribute to the diversity and excellence of the academic community through research, teaching and service. The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Kendall Fellowship: Implications of Hypersonic WeaponsGlobal Security ProgramUnion of Concerned ScientistsCambridge, MA Office preferred   The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) seeks outstanding candidates for a Kendall Fellowship studying the technology and policy implications of hypersonic weapons. This two-year fellowship is open to candidates who will have completed their Ph.D. in the physical sciences, engineering, or other appropriate fields before Fall 2019. The Fellow will investigate the technical and strategic issues related to the development and deployment of hypersonic weapons and develop policy recommendations for mitigating the dangers these weapons pose. The Union of Concerned Scientists is an independent national nonprofit whose scientists and engineers work to solve some of our planet’s most pressing environmental and safety problems. UCS combines technical analysis and effective organizing and advocacy to create innovative, practical solutions for global warming, sustainable food policy and agriculture, clean energy and transportation, and reducing the threat of catastrophic nuclear war. Responsibilities As a Kendall Fellow, you will work with UCS staff to develop a proposal for a two-year project studying the technical capabilities and limitations of hypersonic weapons, and assessing the potential military uses of these systems along with their possible effects on international security. You will also develop policy recommendations, including arms control limitations, for mitigating the dangers these weapons pose, and help produce fact sheets and other written material. You’ll be expected to take part in briefings on the subject for the public and congressional staff. The detailed outcomes of the Fellowship will be defined during the development of the proposal (see “To Apply”), but could include an academic research paper, a UCS report on technology and policy issues, materials for the public, and/or organizing events that convene experts and/or policymakers. Qualifications and Experience The Fellow should have a technical background—probably a PhD in physics or engineering—that will allow an analysis of technical issues related to hypersonics, and a strong background in nuclear weapons and arms control issues. You should be able to identify key policy-relevant questions, and write and speak clearly for both technical and policy audiences. A Ph.D. in a relevant field must be completed before September 1, 2019. You may spend extended periods at a computer. Occasional travel may be required (several overnight trips per year). UCS is an equal opportunity employer continually seeking to diversify its staff. In particular, we’re dedicated to broadening opportunities for individuals from demographic groups that are historically underrepresented in the sciences and in environmental advocacy. We’re also committed to building an inclusive workplace culture where talented people of widely diverse backgrounds can thrive. We've adopted this commitment because we believe the inclusion of culturally diverse perspectives will improve our work and produce better societal and environmental outcomes for all, including historically disenfranchised communities. We are actively seeking people who bring diverse backgrounds and perspectives to join us in this work. About the Kendall Science Fellows Program The Kendall Science Fellows Program was established to honor Nobel Prize winning physicist Henry Kendall who was with UCS from our beginnings and was the long-time chair of our board. Kendall was known for his unique ability to shake up the status quo and catalyze new thinking, and UCS looks to Kendall Fellows to do the same. Priority is given to innovative and forward-looking proposals that are primarily scientific, technical, or analytic in nature but also show interest in the application of science to policy. Fellows will benefit from the opportunity to learn from the UCS approach to science and policy, and UCS will benefit from the new approaches and expertise of the Kendall Fellows. Compensation, Hours and Location: This is a full-time, up to two-year position. Location in UCS’s Cambridge, MA office is preferred but other UCS offices may be possible. The Fellowship will begin in Fall 2019. Kendall Fellowship salaries follow a special structure and are fixed at $72,000 for candidates with less than 3 years relevant post-Ph.D. experience and $82,000 for those with 3-8 years of post-Ph.D. experience. UCS offers excellent benefits and a rewarding work environment. Information about the organization is available at http://www.ucsusa.org. A listing of all open jobs is available at https://www.ucsusa.org/about/jobs-ucs.   To Apply: Please upload: (1) a cover letter up to two pages that includes relevant background and experience, a brief description of a research idea related to battery recycling and reuse, interest in working with UCS, and salary requirements; (2) curriculum vitae; and (3) two references. Upload materials in Word or PDF format to https://union-of-concerned-scientists.workable.com/j/0E228861F6 No phone calls, please.   Following an initial screening, top candidates will co-create a more specific fellowship proposal in coordination with UCS staff for submission to the Kendall Science Fellows Program Advisory Committee by February 1, 2019. Final decisions on the award of this competitive fellowship will be made by the end of February 2019.   Deadline: December 10, 2018 or until filled. Review of applications will begin immediately

Kendall Fellowship: Carbon Dioxide Removal InnovationsClimate & Energy ProgramUnion of Concerned ScientistsWashington, DC, or Cambridge, MA   The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS), the leading science-based organization at the center of today’s most exciting and important policy debates, seeks outstanding candidates for its Kendall Science Fellows program. This two-year fellowship is open to candidates who will have completed their Ph.D. in the physical sciences, engineering, economics, or other relevant technical or multidisciplinary subject before Fall 2019. The fellow will investigate the potential for carbon dioxide removal (CDR) from the atmosphere, along with the research agenda, policies, and funding needed to effectively, economically, and safely deploy negative emissions technologies (NETs) to help meet the carbon emissions goals (net-zero by mid-century) arising from the Paris Agreement. The Union of Concerned Scientists is an independent national nonprofit whose scientists and engineers work to solve some of our planet’s most pressing environmental and security problems. UCS combines technical analysis and effective organizing and advocacy to create innovative, practical solutions for stemming the tide of global warming, advancing clean energy and transportation policy, promoting sustainable food and agricultural policy, countering misinformation, and reducing the threat of catastrophic nuclear war.   Responsibilities The Kendall Fellow will work with UCS staff to develop a proposal for a two-year post-doctoral research project focused on accelerating the potential for CDR to help the US meet net-zero carbon emissions goals, and understanding the risks and barriers involved. The primary goal of the project is to inform and shape the development of a US research agenda for innovation and deployment of NETs as part of a comprehensive strategy to reduce carbon emissions to net-zero by mid-century. We anticipate this work will build on the 2018 National Academies of Science report on CDR, the 2018 IPCC Special Report on reaching 1.5C, and other related research. As a Fellow, you could evaluate CDR options with regards to their readiness, risks and trade-offs, current and potential costs of deployment compared to other alternatives, and permanence. You may also conduct research on the potential for encouraging innovation in CDR options against current and future likely obstacles or inertia risks. As a Fellow, you’ll have opportunities to engage with science and policy leaders, and influential NGOs and academic centers. The detailed outcomes of the fellowship will be defined during the development of the proposal but could include: a research paper published in a peer-reviewed journal; a UCS report on technology and policy issues; the development of materials for the public and opinion leaders; briefings for scientists, policy-makers, and NGOs, and UCS blogs.   Qualifications and experience A completed Ph.D. in the physical sciences, engineering, economics, or other relevant scientific field (or a completion date of Fall 2019) is required. You should have knowledge and experience with global carbon models, climate change mitigation pathways, economic modeling, and demonstrated understanding of the technical, environmental, societal, and/or economic feasibility and constraints of negative emissions technologies. Understanding of technology innovation & deployment is highly desirable. Skills and experience communicating complex technical and policy questions in written products and verbal presentations are also important.  May spend extended periods at computer.  Travel expected on roughly a quarterly basis, occasionally including overnight stays. UCS is an equal opportunity employer continually seeking to diversify its staff. In particular, we’re dedicated to broadening opportunities for individuals from demographic groups that are historically underrepresented in the sciences and in environmental advocacy. We’re also committed to building an inclusive workplace culture where talented people of widely diverse backgrounds can thrive.  We've adopted this commitment because we believe the inclusion of culturally diverse perspectives will improve our work and produce better societal and environmental outcomes for all, including historically disenfranchised communities. We are actively seeking people who bring diverse backgrounds and perspectives to join us in this work.   About the Kendall Science Fellows Program The Kendall Science Fellows Program was established to honor Nobel Prize winning physicist Henry Kendall who was with UCS from our beginnings and was the long-time chair of our board.  Kendall was known for his unique ability to shake up the status quo and catalyze new thinking, and UCS looks to Kendall Fellows to do the same. Priority is given to innovative and forward-looking proposals that are primarily scientific, technical, or analytic in nature but also show interest in the application of science to policy. Fellows will benefit from the opportunity to learn from the UCS approach to science and policy, and UCS will benefit from the new approaches and expertise of the Kendall Fellows.   Compensation, Hours and Location: This is a full-time, up to two-year position based in UCS’s Washington DC office. Fellowship will begin fall 2019. Kendall Fellowship salaries follow a special structure and are fixed at $72,000 for candidates with less than 3 years relevant post-Ph.D. experience and $82,000 for those with 3-8 years of post-Ph.D. experience. UCS offers excellent benefits and a rewarding work environment. Information about UCS is available at http://www.ucsusa.org   To Apply: Please upload a statement of interest (up to 2 pages, including relevant background and experience, a brief description of a research idea in the selected area, and explaining your interest in working with UCS), curriculum vitae, and two references. Upload materials in Word or PDF format to https://www.workable.com/j/88F4C84D3A No phone calls, please. Review of initial applications will begin December 12, 2018. Following an initial screening, top candidates will co-create a more specific fellowship proposal in coordination with UCS staff for submission to the Kendall Science Fellows Program Advisory Committee by February 1, 2017. Final decisions on the award of this competitive fellowship will be made by the end of February 2019.

Kendall Fellowship: Understanding Scientist Activism Center for Science and Democracy Union of Concerned Scientists Cambridge, MA or Washington, DC     The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS), the leading science-based organization at the center of today’s most exciting and important policy debates, seeks candidates for our post-doctoral Kendall Fellowship in Understanding Scientist Activism and Movement Building. This is a two-year fellowship for a social scientist with research experience in studying social movements.   The Union of Concerned Scientists is an independent national nonprofit that combines technical analysis and effective organizing and advocacy to create innovative, practical solutions for stemming the tide of global warming, sustainable food policy and agriculture, clean energy and transportation, and reducing the threat of catastrophic nuclear war.   We seek a social scientist who can help the UCS Center for Science and Democracy develop a plan for sustaining our movement of scientists and science supporters. The Center helps scientists and science-based organizations engage in democratic dialogue and the public policy process. Over the past two years, our team has trained and mobilized thousands of scientists and other experts in the US to be involved in local and national policy- and decision-making. Our network has helped repel some of the most egregious recent attacks on science-based policy-making, setting the stage for a sustained movement for scientist engagement in public policy as a core element of our democracy. We wish to better understand the mechanisms that enable collective and individual advocacy in the science community, to help us create an enduring effort.   The Kendall fellow will develop research on movement-building to address questions such as: What tactics have or haven’t worked in the past (or today) to motivate scientists to become active in US social movements? What lessons can we learn from those examples? What are shared characteristics of the US scientific community that must be considered in building a stronger and more durable political movement to support of the role of science in our democracy? How have scientists who are people of color, early-career scientists, and scientists within more esoteric disciplines engaged in this movement? What practices are successful? What are the barriers to more robust participation? What styles of engagement with scientific societies and other partners have been most successful? What are the barriers to engaging, and sustaining engagement?     Qualifications and Experience Research experience, and nuanced understanding of the science of movement building Excellent communication and collaboration skills with scientific and non-scientific audiences Ability to foster partnerships with peer organizations A doctoral degree in political science or a related field is preferred. A master’s degree with extensive independent research experience may be considered.   May spend extended periods at a computer.  Some travel, up to one week per quarter, may be necessary.   UCS is an equal opportunity employer continually seeking to diversify its staff. In particular, we’re dedicated to broadening opportunities for individuals from demographic groups that are historically underrepresented in the sciences and in environmental advocacy. We’re also committed to building an inclusive workplace culture where talented people of widely diverse backgrounds can thrive. We've adopted this commitment because we believe the inclusion of culturally diverse perspectives will improve our work and produce better societal and environmental outcomes for all, including historically disenfranchised communities. We are actively seeking people who bring diverse backgrounds and perspectives to join us in this work.   About the Kendall Science Fellows Program The Kendall Science Fellows Program was established to honor Nobel Prize winning physicist Henry Kendall who was with UCS from our beginnings and was the long-time chair of our board.  Kendall was known for his unique ability to shake up the status quo and catalyze new thinking, and UCS looks to Kendall Fellows to do the same. Priority is given to innovative and forward-looking proposals that are primarily scientific, technical, or analytic in nature but also show interest in the application of science to policy. Fellows will benefit from the opportunity to learn from the UCS approach to science and policy, and UCS will benefit from the new approaches and expertise of the Kendall Fellows.   Compensation, Hours and Location: This is a full-time, up to two-year position based in either UCS’s Washington, DC or Cambridge, MA office. The Fellowship will begin in Fall 2019. Kendall Fellowship salaries follow a special structure and are fixed at $72,000 for candidates with less than 3 years relevant post-Ph.D. experience and $82,000 for those with 3-8 years of post-Ph.D. experience. UCS offers excellent benefits and a rewarding work environment. Information about the organization is available at http://www.ucsusa.org. A listing of all open jobs is available at https://www.ucsusa.org/about/jobs-ucs.     To Apply: Please upload a cover letter of up to two pages that includes relevant background and experience and a brief description of your research concept on movement-building in the science community; a Curriculum Vitae and a writing sample. Please include salary requirements in the cover letter. Upload materials in Word or PDF format only to https://union-of-concerned-scientists.workable.com/j/4117BF443B  No phone calls, please.   Following an initial screening, top candidates will co-write a more specific fellowship proposal in coordination with UCS staff for submission to the Kendall Science Fellows Program Advisory Committee by February 1, 2019. Final decisions on the award of this competitive fellowship will be made by the end of February 2019.   Deadline: January 6, 2019 or until filled.  Review of applications will begin immediately.