USGS Office/Lab and Location: A research opportunity is available with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). This opportunity is remote.

The USGS mission is to monitor, analyze, and predict current and evolving dynamics of complex human and natural Earth-system interactions and to deliver actionable intelligence at scales and timeframes relevant to decision makers. As the Nation's largest water, earth, and biological science and civilian mapping agency, USGS collects, monitors, analyzes, and provides science about natural resource conditions, issues, and problems.

Research Project: The U.S. Geological Survey’s (USGS) Climate Adaptation Science Centers (CASCs) conducts and supports research on a wide range of topics related to climate adaptation for natural resource stewardship. The fellow will conduct research to support the development of strategic initiatives by CASC leadership in response to emerging USGS and Department of Interior (DOI) priorities, including analyzing existing CASC programs related to selected topics, synthesizing other available information and research on those topics, and interpreting results for CASC leadership. Examples of topics might include, but are not limited to, participatory adaptation research, evaluation of climate adaptation research, workforce development, and other aspects of climate adaptation impacts to natural and cultural resources.

Learning Objectives: The participant will learn about: specific topics related to climate adaptation science, how the federal government develops strategic science research programs, and best practices in the design and implementation of scientific research programs. Professional development opportunities will include participating in Federal training opportunities and scientific conferences (subject to agency conference attendance policies) and interacting with and learning about a wide range of Federal science research and program positions.

Mentor: The mentor for this opportunity is Molly Cross (mcross@usgs.gov). If you have questions about the nature of the research please contact the mentor(s). 

Anticipated Appointment Start Date: February 2025. Start date is flexible and will depend on a variety of factors.

Appointment Length: The appointment will initially be for one year, but may be renewed upon recommendation of DOI and is contingent on the availability of funds.

Level of Participation: The appointment is full time.

Participant Stipend: Stipend rates may vary based on numerous factors, including opportunity, location, education, and experience (anticipated to be between $73,000-$93,000 yearly).

Citizenship Requirements: This opportunity is available to U.S. citizens only.

ORISE Information: This program, administered by ORAU through its contract with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to manage the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE), was established through an interagency agreement between DOE and USGS. Participants do not become employees of USGS, DOE or the program administrator, and there are no employment-related benefits. Proof of health insurance is required for participation in this program. Health insurance can be obtained through ORISE.

Questions: If you have questions about the application process please email USGS@orau.org  and include the reference code for this opportunity.

Qualifications

The qualified candidate should have received a doctoral degree in the one of the relevant fields listed under eligibility requirements below. Degree must have been received within 5 years. 

Preferred skills:

• Strong writing skills with an emphasis on communicating complex topics in clear language  
• Ability to coordinate with teams and networks  
• Timeliness in task completion  
• Creativity  
• Ability to self-motivate and perform independently  
• Effective communication with mentor and team 
• Attention to detail