Climate Science Fellows

Climate Science Fellows 

AGCI is seeking highly innovative, engaged, and motivated individuals to make an impact on projects related to Colorado River science, mountain hydrology, climate services in the U.S., and climate change adaptation. 

About Us

The Aspen Global Change Institute (AGCI) is a nonprofit organization with a mission to advance global change science and solutions. As described in our Strategic Plan, the goals of the Institute are to further understanding of human and Earth systems, catalyze solutions at speed and scale, and nurture diverse and inclusive community across research and practice. This includes work on topics such as climate change, energy technology and policy, natural resource management, and science policy. AGCI programs include interdisciplinary workshops, cross-cutting research, and technical assistance to practitioners implementing solutions to global change. Running through the Institute’s DNA is a strong institutional commitment to excellence in science that is actionable and inclusive. AGCI was founded in 1989 and is a Colorado-based 501(c)(3) organization that supports staff and partners working to implement a mission that is international in scope yet grounded in local contexts and problem domains. As an "Institute Without Walls," AGCI staff and consultants are based in Colorado, Michigan, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Washington, and Oregon.

Specific Job Responsibilities 

We anticipate hiring two positions to work on a range of projects (illustrated below) that will be distributed according to candidates’ background. Please consider applying, even if you only feel qualified for some, but not all of the responsibilities listed below:

Development of a Colorado River Science wiki, a web-based clearinghouse for scientific and technical information and data relevant to water and natural resource management. Work will include leading engagement efforts with research and practitioner communities to gather and synthesize scientific research for resource managers, other decision makers, and the broader public.

Mapping the supply and demand of climate change information for decision support. Work will include conducting a series of research and engagement activities as part of a team of social and geophysical scientists to navigate and cultivate partnerships across the dynamic landscape of climate services supply and demand.

Data analysis and interpretation of soil moisture and other meteorological variables collected by the Roaring Fork Observation Network. Work will include creating tools and graphics to convey past and current conditions within the Roaring Fork Valley and how they relate to the Colorado River headwaters more broadly.

Science communication and outreach related to mountain hydrology. Work will include conveying research results to help researchers, water and land managers, and local residents understand current and future trends in hydrology in the Colorado River headwaters.

Network building among researchers, climate service providers, and communities in the Mountain West to facilitate and scale climate change adaptation efforts. Work will include facilitating network building by participating in and hosting meetings, responding to community requests, and engaging in individualized outreach efforts. 

Qualifications 

The following qualifications characterize attributes we anticipate candidates would draw upon to succeed in the position. With multiple hires, we do not expect each candidate will have all skills shown below. We encourage applications from candidates who believe they would be capable of performing the responsibilities listed above, even if not all qualifications are met. 

• Graduate degree (MS or PhD) in fields related to climate change science, hydrology, and engineering, water and natural resources management, science communication
• Strong scientific and communication skills, both written and verbal 
• Demonstrated ability to synthesize scientific literature
• Demonstrated ability to write clearly and concisely for non-specialist audiences
• Knowledge and experience with climate change information, climate impacts, hydrology, and climate adaptation
• Skill using software/methods for collection, management, and analysis of quantitative data 
• Experience with website content creation and management 
• Experience with website development
• Demonstrated creative problem-solving abilities
• Commitment to collaboration and community building among diverse stakeholders
• Strong sense of self-awareness
• Demonstrated excellence in organizational, managerial, and interpersonal skills 
• Desire to join and foster the growth of a dynamic nonprofit organization 

Work Schedule & Compensation 

Start date is flexible within Spring 2022. AGCI will consider flexible FTEs and joint appointments. AGCI operates a primary office in Basalt, Colorado, with staff working from other states as part of its “Institute Without Walls” approach. Remote work within the United States is permitted in this role. The initial period of this fellowship is one year, with an option to renew for a second year conditional on exemplary performance and funding availability. 

Compensation: Benefits and salary dependent on experience and location of employment. Anticipated salary range is $60,000 – $70,000. 

To Apply 

Please submit a CV and cover letter describing your qualifications and interest in this position to hr@agci.org, and include “Climate Science Fellowship Application” in the email subject line. 

Applications received before January 31, 2022, may receive priority consideration. The interview process will begin in February 2022. Additional applications may be reviewed on a rolling basis thereafter until a candidate is appointed. 

The Aspen Global Change Institute is committed to providing an equal employment opportunity for all applicants and to ensuring an inclusive work environment free of discrimination and harassment. We welcome people of all identities, backgrounds, and experiences to apply. 

If you feel you do not meet all the listed qualifications but are capable of accomplishing the aims of this position, we encourage your application. You will have the opportunity to share additional details about your work experience that are not reflected in a traditional resume. Our employment decisions are based on our organizational needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications, without regard to race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, family or parental status, disability, age, national origin, or any other protected status.