Postdoctoral Research Associate, Climate Change & Climate Services - Prairie Research Institute
ILLINOIS STATE WATER SURVEY
The Prairie Research Institute (PRI) and Illinois State Climatologist Office is seeking to hire a Postdoctoral Research Associate with expertise and interest in regional climate change, stakeholder outreach, and climate services. Funding for the position is available for 12 months with the potential for a 12-month extension.
Position Description: The Illinois State Climatologist Office is seeking to hire a Postdoctoral Research Associate to help advance actionable climate information and services for urban planning and hazard resilience across Illinois. The scientist will work in close collaboration with the State Climatologist, the State Emergency Management Agency, and National Weather Service offices to develop web-based climate tools and services that meet the needs of regional planning, urban development, and hazard mitigation partners around the state. The scientist will also assist the State Climatologist Office with stakeholder engagement to ensure the development of climate services meets the growing needs of partners at state and local levels. The position is an excellent opportunity for scientists who are interested in climate services and engaging public and private sector partners to advance climate resilience in Illinois.
Major Duties and Responsibilities: Help lead stakeholder/partner climate service workshops, obtain and process large historical and future climate datasets, lead development of web-based climate tools and services to meet stakeholder needs.
Education Required: At the time of the appointment, applicants should hold either a PhD with interest and expertise in climate science, climate services, or applied climate research. Applicants with a Masters Degree will be considered if they have experience with both large climate data and stakeholder engagement. Preferred: PhD with experience working with climate projections and large climate datasets, as well as interest and/or experience working with climate services for non-science stakeholders.
Knowledge Requirements: Proficiency in Python, R, or other commonly employed software, different databases and data platforms. Experience and strong skills in climate data processing, analysis, and visualization. Effective communication, personal relations, collaboration, organizational, teamwork, and leadership skills. Demonstrated ability to perform effectively in a diverse and fast-paced work environment consisting of multiple and changing priorities with stringent deadlines, under minimal supervision. Attention to detail, sound judgment, and strong conflict resolution skills.
Those wishing to apply should send their CVs and statement of interest to Trent Ford (twford@illinois.edu).