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The International Arctic Research Center (IARC) is recruiting a Postdoctoral Fellow in Avalanche Science Communication to work on an NSF-funded research project focused on communicating about future snow avalanche models to Alaska decision makers. Research activities will be related to one or more of the following areas:

1. Segment decision makers to improve communication.
2. Communication of snow avalanche and climate model information.
3. Communicating associated uncertainty.
4. Investigating relationships between inputs and actionable science outcomes (i.e., increasing the value and use of evidence for decision making to improve practice, programs and policy).

The postdoctoral fellow will participate fully in research and related scholarly activities including leading research initiatives, partnership development and maintenance with a variety of snow avalanche decision makers (i.e., government, transportation, utilities, recreation, etc.), research project design and development, grant writing, knowledge mobilization (e.g., publications, presentations), science communication, and project management.

The postdoctoral fellow will be offered a supportive environment under the supervision of Dr. Kristin Timm (PI, IARC) in close collaboration with Dr. Gabriel Wolken (Co-PI, IARC & State of Alaska Division of Geological and Geophysical Survey), that emphasizes developing research skills, working with expert science communicators, and gaining experience with engaged research methodologies and societal engagement.

To thrive in this role, applicants must have a PhD and academic training in the social sciences. We seek candidates with a strong interest or experience working in transdisciplinary teams and using engaged research methods. The successful applicant is enthusiastic about making meaningful contributions through their research and working in a highly collaborative environment. We seek applicants that can demonstrate creativity, initiative, and strong oral and written communication skills.

The postdoctoral fellowship is based at the International Arctic Research Center (IARC) at the University of Alaska Fairbanks in Fairbanks, Alaska. IARC’s mission is understanding the Arctic to make a difference. IARC is a highly productive, interdisciplinary research center home to over 100 natural, physical, social scientists, and humanities experts, several engaged research programs, and leaders in Alaska climate research, science engagement, and climate modeling. With interdisciplinary training, diverse perspectives, work-life balance, and career development being top priorities at IARC, the postdoctoral fellow will have access to opportunities to build their skills and networks to pursue future careers in research, government, and beyond.

Minimum Qualifications:

Required:
PhD in a social science discipline (i.e., communication, sociology, human geography, psychology, political science, science and technology studies, public policy and planning, or other related discipline, etc.). Demonstrated training and experience in social science research methods (e.g., interview, survey, comparative case studies, participant action, community-based research). Strong quantitative and qualitative research and analytical skills.

Preferred:
Experience conducting research in the context of snow or cryosphere sciences, climate change impacts and/or climate change adaptation is preferred. Able to work in a team environment with extensive collaboration and interaction with collaborators and community partners.

Position Details:

This position is located on the Fairbanks campus in Fairbanks, Alaska, or remote anywhere within Alaska, and flexible on-site/hybrid work arrangements may be considered in accordance with UA regulations. This is a full-time, term-funded, exempt faculty position complete with both a competitive salary and full employee benefits package. UA provides a generous compensation package that includes retirement options, annual leave, 12 paid holidays per year, tuition waivers for employees and family members, and affordable medical, dental and vision care coverage.

Special Instructions to applicants:

1. Cover letter (1-2 pages) including a description of one or two project ideas you are interested in developing.
2. Curriculum Vitae (CV).
3. Sample research publication(s).
4. Three reference names (3) with emails and phone numbers.
5. One to three other examples of public-facing communications or products of collaborative work (optional).

Applications will be accepted for initial review on January 13, 2025. To ensure full consideration, please apply by 11:55pm, Alaska Standard Time on the DAY BEFORE THE REVIEW DATE of January 12, 2025. The position will remain open until it is successfully filled.

To view the full list of job responsibilities, please click HERE.

If you have any questions regarding this position, please contact Kristin Timm, Research Assistant Professor, at kmtimm@alaska.edu or 907-474-6836.

*To be eligible for this position, applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without restriction. Applicants who now or may in the future require visa sponsorship to work in the United States are not eligible.

The University of Alaska (UA) is responsible for providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities throughout the applicant screening process. If you need assistance in completing this application or during any phase of the interview process, please contact UA Human Resources by phone at 907-450-8200.

UA is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer, educational institution and provider and prohibits illegal discrimination against any individual.

The successful applicant is required to complete a background check. Any offer of employment is contingent on the background check.

Your application for employment with the University of Alaska is subject to public disclosure under the Alaska Public Records Act.

All employees at the University of Alaska are expected to uphold the highest standards of ethics and professionalism when conducting or engaged in university business.