Post Doctoral Fellow

Emory University is seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow in Critical Approaches to Energy Transition and Climate Adaptation for the Climate Transformations Lab. The role involves conducting interdisciplinary research on renewable energy impacts on marginalized communities, focusing on justice in climate adaptation and energy policies. Candidates will receive advanced training and contribute to academic publications. A doctoral degree is required, and the position is based in Atlanta, GA.
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Description

Postdoctoral Fellow in Critical Approaches to Energy Transition and Climate Adaptation at Emory University, Department of Environmental Sciences

The Climate Transformations Lab (ClimTransform Lab) , led by Dr. Jola Ajibade, invites applications for a Postdoctoral Fellow to join an interdisciplinary research team at Emory University. This position is part of a groundbreaking project examining the multi-dimensional impacts of renewable energy systems on the adaptation capital of marginalized communities in emerging sacrifice zones across the Global South and Global North. The project seeks to advance justice in climate adaptation, mitigation, labor relations, and renewable energy transition.

Position Overview

The successful candidate will contribute to a global study integrating political ecology, just transitions, agrarian studies, environmental justice, and labor justice frameworks. The project seeks to identify and analyze renewable energy burdens and injustices, focusing on solar, wind, and lithium mining technologies. This work aims to support decolonial and justice-centered energy policies through academic publications, and practical tools for advocacy and policymaking. Selected candidates will get advanced training from the Principal Investigator to enhance their professional skills and research independence needed for the pursuit of a career.

About the ClimTransformations Lab

The Climate Transformations Lab examines climate adaptation, relocation, and renewable energy, in the context of just transitions. Through collaborative and interdisciplinary research, the lab aims to create actionable solutions that prioritize equity, climate justice, and sustainability.

JOB DESCRIPTION: Helps design and conduct research within a specified field while receiving advanced training from a designated Principal Investigator to enhance professional skills and research independence needed for pursuit of a career. The specific area of research in which the trainee is mentored is determined by the department and laboratory of the Postdoc. Designs and evaluates experiments. Develops new ideas that promote current research. Prepares and publishes scientific manuscripts under the direction of the Principal Investigator. May be responsible for operation of specific equipment. May teach techniques to others, train, and supervise research staff. Positions are temporary appointments as a research trainee. The initial appointment is for one year, renewal expected if progress is satisfactory and funds are available. Appointments cannot exceed five years.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: A doctoral degree or equivalent (Ph.D., M.D., ScD., D.V.M., DDS etc) in an appropriate field. Excellent scientific writing ability and strong oral communication skills. The ability to work effectively and collegially with colleagues. Additional qualifications as specified by the Principal Investigator.

Additional Information about the Job:

The successful candidate will contribute to a global study integrating political ecology, just transitions, agrarian studies, environmental justice, and labor justice frameworks. The project seeks to identify and analyze renewable energy burdens and injustices, focusing on solar, wind, and lithium mining technologies. This work aims to support decolonial and justice-centered energy policies through academic publications, and practical tools for advocacy and policymaking. Selected candidates will get advanced training from the Principal Investigator to enhance their professional skills and research independence needed for the pursuit of a career.

Key Responsibilities:

The Postdoctoral Fellow will:
• Conduct a systematic meta-analysis of global case studies on renewable energy impacts.
• Lead GIS mapping of renewable energy projects, community displacement and relocation, and their social and environmental burdens.
• Design and implement surveys targeting energy practitioners, labor experts, and climate activists.
• Facilitate Delphi method interviews with global energy scholars, labor advocates, and policymakers.
• Analyze and visualize data using qualitative and quantitative tools, including R, Python, and MAXQDA.
• Co-author peer-reviewed articles and contribute to the development of the Renewable Energy Burden EJ Atlas and Managed Retreat Atlas.
• Participate in disseminating findings through conferences, policy briefs, and media outlets.

Additional/Preferred Qualifications:
• Ph.D. in Environmental Sciences, Geography, Sociology, Political Ecology, or a related field by the start date.
• Demonstrated expertise in renewable energy systems, managed retreat, climate migration/relocation, climate justice, sustainability science, or labor justice research.
• Strong experience with qualitative methods, including Delphi techniques, interviews, and policy analysis.
• Individuals who are adaptable, detail-oriented, quick learners, and critical thinkers are particularly encouraged to apply.
• Proficiency in GIS mapping and data analytics.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a proven publication record.
• Experience working with diverse stakeholders, especially marginalized communities, is highly desirable.
• The ability to work effectively and collegially with colleagues

Intererested candidates should submit the following Application Materials:
• A cover letter detailing interests and skills related to the position, including (1) experience with

renewable energy systems, managed retreat or relocation programs and/or climate adaptation, (2) GIS

mapping and data analysis, (3) labor research and (4) participatory work with marginalized communities.
• A current CV.
• A writing sample (preferably a peer-reviewed publication).
• Contact information for three professional references.

Position Details
• Start Date : August 1, 2025
• Location : Atlanta, GA (Emory Campus)
• Term : 1 year 1.00 FTE (renewable for a second year based on performance and funding availability)

The review of applications will begin on March 25, 2025 , and continue until the position is filled. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.

Additional Details

Emory is an equal opportunity employer, and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law. Emory University does not discriminate in admissions, educational programs, or employment, including recruitment, hiring, promotions, transfers, discipline, terminations, wage and salary administration, benefits, and training. Students, faculty, and staff are assured of participation in university programs and in the use of facilities without such discrimination. Emory University complies with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Era Veteran's Readjustment Assistance Act, and applicable executive orders, federal and state regulations regarding nondiscrimination, equal opportunity, and affirmative action (for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities). Inquiries regarding this policy should be directed to the Emory University Department of Equity and Civil Rights Compliance, 201 Dowman Drive, Administration Building, Atlanta, GA 30322. Telephone: 404-727-9867 (V) | 404-712-2049 (TDD).

Emory University is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. To request this document in an alternate format or to request a reasonable accommodation, please contact the Department of Accessibility Services at 404-727-9877 (V) | 404-712-2049 (TDD). Please note that one week's advance notice is preferred.

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Job Number 142755

Job Type Regular Full-Time

Division Emory College

Department ECAS: Environmental Science

Campus Location (For Posting) : Location US-GA-Atlanta

Location : Name Emory Campus-Clifton Corridor

Required Documents Cover letter, List of 3 Recommenders, Peer Reviewed Publication, Writing Sample

Remote Work Classification Hybrid Remote

Health and Safety Information Not Applicable