**Application Deadline January 15, 2019**

Postdoctoral Research Associate on International Conservation Funding
Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

 

Download Link: Post-docPosition_UIUC_MacArthur

 

Overview:The Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences (NRES) at the University Illinois announces a post-doctoral research opportunityfor work within an interdisciplinary team examining the long-term impacts of international funding for biodiversity conservation. This research will be part of a two-year project supported by the MacArthur Foundation that aims to advance understanding of the long-term impacts of international conservation funding and the factors associated with sustainable conservation over time. The project centers on MacArthur Foundation biodiversity investment as a case study as it seeks to build more generalizable knowledge.  It includes country-level studies in Bhutan, Madagascar, and Peru as well as global-scale analysis. This is a full-time position available with an initial appointment of one-year, renewable for an additional year on the basis of satisfactory performance. The position is expected to begin in June 2019, with an earlier start date possible.

 

Primary responsibilities:

  • Help lead quantitative and/or qualitative data collection and analysis;
  • Conduct literature reviews on topics such as conservation trust funds and durability of external intervention impacts in social-ecological systems;
  • Develop and prepare manuscripts for submission to peer-reviewed journals;
  • Travel internationally and/or within the US for research and to present research results;
  • Help organize meetings and communication within the international project team;
  • Mentor graduate and undergraduate students.

 

Qualifications:The successful candidate will have expertise and interests in at least one of the following areas: survey design and quantitative data analysis; process tracing and/or other qualitative research methods; impact evaluation; policy and institutional analysis; and evidence synthesis. The position requires excellent writing, communication, and data management skills and a demonstrated ability to work within diverse teams. The ideal candidate will have knowledge of research on social-ecological systems and/or international conservation policy and finance. Experience working internationally is strongly desired.  A PhD in Environmental Science or Studies, Geography, Economics, Public Policy, or a related field within the last 5 years is required at the time of appointment.

 

Location and benefits:The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is one of the world’s leading public research universities, offering rigorous academic programs, top-notch faculty and students, and diverse cultural opportunities in a vibrant college town setting.  This position is within the Miller Research Group on Conservation and Development Politics (http://dcmiller.nres.illinois.edu) in the Department of NRES. NRES is an interdisciplinary unit that brings biological, physical, and social scientists together to identify, teach and communicate solutions for the sustainability of urban, managed, and natural ecosystems from local to global scales.  Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience and qualifications. Benefits include employee health and dental insurance.

 

Application Procedures:  Applicants should submit the following by January 15, 2019:1) a 1-2 page cover letter describing a) their interest in the position, and b) their relevant skills and experience, 2) their CV, 3) a recent publication or dissertation chapter, and 4) names and contact details (email addresses and telephone numbers) for three references. These materials should be submitted in a single PDF filevia email to Dr.Daniel Miller (dcmiller@illinois.edu).  Please direct any questions to Dr. Miller.

 

The University of Illinois is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action employer. Minorities, women, veterans and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. For more information, visit http://go.illinois.edu/EEO. To learn more about the University’s commitment to diversity, please visit http://www.inclusiveillinois.illinois.edu.  The University of Illinois conducts criminal background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer.