Research Scientist, Asst - Haub School of Environment & Natural Resources

The University of Wyoming invites diverse applicants to consider our employment opportunities.  We are also especially interested in candidates who have experience working with diverse populations and/or diverse initiatives. 

JOB TITLE:   

Research Scientist, Asst.   

JOB PURPOSE:     

Research Scientists are academic professionals whose primary responsibilities are to conduct and support research. UW Regulation 2-7 describes the activities that fall into this set of responsibilities for faculty; the same definition of research applies to Academic Professionals.

The Ruckelshaus Institute at the University of Wyoming seeks a Research Scientist to support its mission of advancing effective environment and natural resource decision-making through collaboration. This position offers an opportunity to engage in meaningful research and stakeholder engagement on critical environmental and natural resource issues in Wyoming and the West.

The Ruckelshaus Institute advances the university’s land-grant mission by providing service, information, and assistance to organizations wrestling with environmental challenges. The Institute is housed within the Haub School of Environment and Natural Resources, which values interdisciplinary approaches to problem solving; scholarship that can inform real-world solutions; tangible, place-based experiences to develop critical thinking skills in the next generation of leaders and decision makers; and a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment on campus and beyond.

The Research Scientist will support a variety of Ruckelshaus Institute projects through a dynamic and multi-faceted workload. An annual salary of $55,000 and health insurance are secured for 18 months. The position will begin as soon as possible and the contract may be renewed as additional funding is secured. Review of applicants will begin August 26 and occur on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Unique Aspects of the Position:

• Opportunity to work directly with diverse stakeholders, including government agencies, Tribes, and local communities
• Engagement in applied research that directly informs policy and management decisions
• Support for the collaborative mission of the Ruckelshaus Institute, contributing to real-world outcomes for complex environmental challenges

Position logistics:

Applicants are required to be in or within commuting distance to Laramie, Wyoming, for a majority of the appointment. While some flexibility is possible, the success of the project depends on your ability to work closely with Ruckelshaus Institute staff and Haub School faculty, as well as project partners statewide.

Duration: 18 months, with possibility for annual renewal

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:  

• Plan, lead and facilitate collaborative processes around Wyoming on environmental and natural resource issues. Current projects include: 
  • Advising a federal agency on public engagement in regional planning processes.
  • Conducting public surveys on recreation user opinions to inform decision making for a state agency. 
  • Leading a statewide working group to address a timely and controversial resource management issue in Wyoming.
• Conduct independent and joint research on topics relevant to the Ruckelshaus Institute's mission.
• Prepare reports, policy briefs, and academic publications to communicate research findings and project outcomes.
• Assist in organizing and facilitating workshops, meetings, and other events related to the Institute's work.
• Contribute to grant writing and project development efforts.
• Support the Collaboration Program in Natural Resources through recruitment and delivery of training related to the applicant’s skills.
• Build collaborative relationships with a range of partners, particularly Tribes and natural resource agencies.

REMOTE WORK ELIGIBILITY: 

This position provides vital support to campus customers and requires the successful candidate be available to work on campus.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:  

• Master’s degree in natural resources, environmental policy, collaborative governance, or related field, plus three years of experience relevant to the position
• Demonstrated experience in collaborative problem-solving and stakeholder engagement
• Strong research and analytical skills
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Demonstrated project management and organizational abilities, including the ability to handle multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and work independently and as part of a team
• Valid driver's license with a motor vehicle record (MVR) compliant with