Associate Research Scholar, Earth Institute, Columbia University

Mar 5, 2014 | The Earth Institute, Columbia University

The Advanced Consortium on Cooperation, Conflict and Complexity (AC4) seeks an Associate Research Scholar to conduct applied research on social and environmental sustainability and environmental conflict resolution.

AC4 is the Earth Institute’s (EI) multidisciplinary research center aimed at addressing complex global problems related to peace, conflict, violence, and sustainability.  In addition to conducting primary research and practice, AC4 provides the infrastructure and institutional support needed to enable innovative trans-disciplinary and cross-department collaboration across Columbia University (CU) and elsewhere. Experience has shown that in addition to providing adequate structures for collaboration, interdisciplinary work requires an active yet flexible research agenda to provide coherence, context and direction.

Responsibilities: The Associate Research Scholar (ARS) will be expected to provide intellectual and academic leadership and guidance for all research activities that the center conducts in order to ensure that research activities contribute directly to the center’s focus on peace, violence, conflict and sustainability. Additionally, the ARS will be required to maintain and expand the center’s existing portfolio of field-based practice in cooperative environmental management and applied conflict resolution. The Associate Research Scholar will likewise work with AC4 personnel to create linkages across other EI centers and CU departments, and expand the center’s external network of peace, conflict and sustainability partners.

Qualifications: PhD in Conflict Analysis and Resolution, Peace Studies, Psychology, Sustainable Development, or an equivalent social science. Minimum of 2 years practical experience designing and conducting interdisciplinary research on social-ecological system dynamics, practical conflict resolution, conservation and land management, and/or sustainable development. Experience conducting field-based data collection, conflict resolution training, and/or stakeholder workshop facilitation. Proficiency required in quantitative, qualitative, or geospatial research methods. Experience working with or consulting for US and foreign government agencies and/or private sector clients is strongly desired. The applicant should also have a demonstrated history of successful fundraising and grant writing.

Excellent English communication, technical writing and presentation skills are required. Proficiency in Spanish, Portuguese, or other foreign language is preferred.

The position is full-time with a full benefit package.  The initial appointment will be for one year with the possibility of annual renewal based on performance and the availability of funds.  Search will remain open for no less than 30 days from the date of posting, and until the position is filled.  

To apply, please go to https://academicjobs.columbia.edu/applicants/Central?quickFind=58976