Research Analyst - Ecosystem Services Program, Nicholas Institute

Duke University is hiring a full-time Research Analyst for the Ecosystem Services Program at the Nicholas Institute, starting in fall 2024. The role involves supporting climate resilience initiatives, engaging in spatial ecosystem services modeling, and collaborating with various stakeholders. Responsibilities include synthesizing information, analyzing spatial data, and drafting reports. A master's degree is preferred, with experience in ArcGIS and data management required. The position emphasizes diversity and inclusion.
About the position

Duke University is seeking a Research Analyst for the Ecosystem Services Program at the Nicholas Institute for Energy, Environment & Sustainability. This full-time position, beginning in fall 2024, is designed to support the mission of integrating ecosystem services, nature-based solutions, and climate resilience into the work of government agencies, corporations, non-governmental organizations, and other decision-makers. The Research Analyst will engage in various projects that may include developing metrics and designing a data system for nature-based climate adaptation projects, finalizing a web-based roadmap for deploying nature-based solutions on lands managed by the U.S. Department of the Interior, conducting spatial ecosystem services modeling on military bases, and supporting the program director's initiatives with the Duke Office of Climate and Sustainability. The role requires collaboration with program staff, Duke faculty, students, and external collaborators, and will evolve based on funding, team availability, and the associate's interests. The Nicholas Institute emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion, encouraging applicants with a commitment to these values in higher education. The Research Analyst will report to Program Director Lydia Olander and will be involved in synthesizing information from various sources, engaging with stakeholders, analyzing spatial data, and drafting written products such as reports and guidance documents. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to impactful research and policy development in the field of ecosystem services and climate adaptation.

Responsibilities
• Finding and synthesizing information from academic literature, gray literature, and online resources on specific topics.
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• Engaging with subject matter experts and stakeholders.
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• Developing materials (slides, background information, surveys) for workshops, focus groups, and other meetings with partners, stakeholders, and subject matter experts.
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• Analyzing spatial data, including use of existing third-party models, and creating maps to communicate key findings.
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• Drafting written products including reports, white papers, guidance documents, and journal articles.
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• Managing projects, including student interns.
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• Assisting with new project development and proposal writing.

Requirements
• A master's degree in a related discipline is preferred; a bachelor's degree in a field related to the position with an additional two years of experience is acceptable or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
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• Experience with ArcGIS Pro and spatial analysis.
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• Proficiency in data management, including use of Microsoft Excel.
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• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
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• Strong organizational and interpersonal skills.

Nice-to-haves
• Experience with ArcGIS Online or Python is preferred but not required.
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• Familiarity with the concepts of nature-based solutions and ecosystem services.

Benefits