Research Scientist, Asst - Haub School of Environment & Natural Resources (242475)

The University of Wyoming is hiring a Research Scientist for the Ruckelshaus Institute, focusing on environmental and natural resource research. Key responsibilities include conducting research, engaging stakeholders, facilitating collaborative processes, and preparing reports. The position requires a Master's degree and three years of relevant experience. It is expected to last 18 months with a $55,000 salary. The role necessitates a presence in Laramie, Wyoming, indicating it is not remote.
About the position

The University of Wyoming is seeking a Research Scientist to join the Ruckelshaus Institute within the Haub School of Environment and Natural Resources. This position is designed for academic professionals whose primary responsibilities include conducting and supporting research that informs environmental and natural resource decision-making. The Research Scientist will engage in meaningful research and stakeholder engagement on critical environmental issues affecting Wyoming and the broader Western region. The Ruckelshaus Institute aims to advance the university's land-grant mission by providing essential services, information, and assistance to organizations facing environmental challenges. This role offers a unique opportunity to work directly with diverse stakeholders, including government agencies, Tribes, and local communities, and to contribute to applied research that directly informs policy and management decisions. The Research Scientist will have a dynamic and multi-faceted workload, supporting various projects at the Ruckelshaus Institute. Responsibilities will include planning and facilitating collaborative processes around environmental and natural resource issues, conducting public surveys, leading working groups, and preparing reports and publications to communicate research findings. The position is expected to last for 18 months, with a possibility for renewal based on additional funding. The successful candidate will be required to work closely with Ruckelshaus Institute staff and Haub School faculty, necessitating a presence in Laramie, Wyoming, for the majority of the appointment. The annual salary for this position is $55,000, and health insurance is provided for the duration of the contract.

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

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

Nice-to-haves
• Familiarity with environmental and natural resource issues in Wyoming and Mountain West.
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• Experience facilitating multi-stakeholder processes.
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• Track record of peer-reviewed publications and/or policy-relevant reports.
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• Grant writing experience.
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• Proficiency in relevant analytical tools and software (e.g., GIS, statistical analysis packages).
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• Strong science communication skills.
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• Ph.D. in natural resources, environmental policy, collaborative governance, or related field.

Benefits
• Health insurance coverage for the duration of the contract.