Postdoctoral Research Associate in Environment and Society

Brown University: The Institute at Brown for Environment and Society (IBES) seeks candidates for one or more distinguished postdoctoral positions in interdisciplinary environmental science. IBES was founded in 2014, building on strength across campus in interdisciplinary environmental research. It includes over 30 Faculty Fellows from 12 Departments across Schools and Divisions at Brown. IBES organizes its research activities into four themes: Natural Systems, Food and Water, Human Health and Well-Being, and Equity and Governance. Postdoctoral Fellows will be expected to work within one or more of these themes, and to be mentored by at least one IBES Faculty Fellow.

Appointments will have an expected term of two years starting in July 2016 or soon thereafter. Fellows receive a salary of $50,000, plus benefits and a discretionary fund of $5,000/year in addition to any research funds that may be directed to the project by mentors. Postdoctoral fellows are expected to devote their appointment to research activities, but in special cases postdoctoral fellows may have the opportunity to teach undergraduate courses.

QUALIFICATIONS AND CRITERIA

Requirements for the positions include a Ph.D. in an environmentally-related discipline, the intellectual flexibility to reach across fields, ability to take initiative and work independently, and demonstrated interest in interdisciplinary environmental research. Applicants should submit a research proposal based on the guidelines below, including identification of a proposed faculty mentor (IBES Fellows are listed at http://www.brown.edu/academics/institute-environment-society/faculty-fellows-0). Proposals will be judged on scientific merit, contribution to IBES thematic foci, and an achievable research plan, given time and budgetary constraints. Letters of support will be requested from proposed mentors, so applicants will benefit from contacting proposed mentors early in the process. Preference will be given to applicants whose research complements (but does not duplicate) ongoing faculty research, and to multi-disciplinary research.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

To apply, please submit the following items at http://apply.interfolio.com/30593 by November 1, 2015.

• Cover letter describing your interest in the position and how this position relates to your career goals;
• Current CV;
• Required project proposal (1500 words maximum, excluding references): Proposals should briefly address the following points:
  • Title and brief abstract
  • Project background and importance: What is known and what is new about this question? Why does it matter?
  • How does this project fit with your own previous work and your proposed mentor's?
  • Project plan: What will you actually do? Include a timeline or workplan if appropriate. If additional resources will be needed to complete the work, do you have options for funding them?
  • Project outcomes: What products will come out of this project (e.g. articles, methods, datasets, policy briefs, educational materials)? What types of support will you need to produce and disseminate these?
  • References (not included in 1500 word limit)
• Three letters of reference from advisors or colleagues who know the applicant’s work well. Letters should describe prior research experience and evidence of applicant’s interest, capability, and potential in interdisciplinary environmental research. Referees should submit letters directly through Interfolio, which will supply a direct link when contact information is entered.