Research Associate
Content + Source + Freshness • 14 Dec 2025 • 95% confidence
Offer value
This role provides a unique opportunity for research-focused candidates with competitive compensation expectations while engaging in impactful work within a prestigious institution.
- Opportunity to conduct impactful research at Notre Dame
- Strong focus on interdisciplinary collaboration in environmental sciences
- Fieldwork opportunities in Peru enhance practical skills
Pros
- Engaging role with a focus on meaningful environmental research
- Access to interdisciplinary collaboration within a prestigious university
- Chance to participate in fieldwork in Peru, enhancing field experience
Cons
- Potentially challenging field conditions
- Requires significant computational skills that may deter some candidates
- Position may not offer immediate financial benefits
Who it's for
Early to mid-career • Full-time, research-intensive
Good fit
- Research-focused individuals with a background in ecology
- Candidates looking for fieldwork opportunities
- Those with programming skills and a passion for environmental issues
Not recommended for
- Individuals looking for traditional office roles
- Candidates without research experience or skills in data analysis
- Those seeking non-field based or less intensive work
Motivation fit
Key skills
About the job
Company Description
About Notre Dame and JTS:
The University of Notre Dame is a prestigious private institution located in Notre Dame, Indiana. The JTS Initiative is a university-wide effort to build a sustainable future where people and nature flourish together. JTS is committed to seeking transformative change in a manner consistent with the best available science and the foundational elements of Integral Ecology and Integral Human Development. Its approach is anchored in five core principles: cross-disciplinary, place-based, partner-connected, justice-centered, and action-oriented.
Job Description
Research Associate: Computational Models of Coupled Natural and Human Systems
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
Interested applicants should submit the following materials by November 10, 2025 through this link here:
- A cover letter describing in detail how their research background and qualifications align with the job description outlined above.
- A detailed CV, including a list of conference presentations, publications, and research collaborations.
- Contact information for at least three references.
A team of faculty members affiliated with the University of Notre Dame’s Just Transformations to Sustainability (JTS) Initiative is seeking a highly qualified and motivated Research Associate in Computational Models of Coupled Natural and Human Systems, with a strong interest in combining forest ecology and environmental policy. This is a full-time research-focused position with no teaching responsibilities. The initial appointment is for 12 months, with the possibility of renewal for an additional 6-12 months. The successful candidate will work collaboratively with investigators from the Keough School of Global Affairs, Department of Biological Sciences, and the JTS Initiative to conduct research on local communities’ forest conservation efforts.
The ideal candidate will possess expertise in computational modeling, including but not limited to statistical analysis and mechanistic computational models. They should also have experience in the analysis of remote sensing products. The successful candidate will also be expected to carry out fieldwork related to local community forest conservation efforts in Peru.
Key Responsibilities:
- Carry out spatial analysis of Peru forest cover change using remote sensing products
- Use an existing computational model of forest dynamics to evaluate ecological consequences of local conservation efforts
- Carry out field work in Peru, as a member of an interdisciplinary research team, to evaluate and improve computational models
- Work with partners to communicate research results in order to make the conservation efforts of local communities more visible to policymakers
- Present research findings at scientific conferences and contribute to academic journal publications
Qualifications
Qualifications:
- We welcome applications from graduate students who, at a minimum, have completed their comprehensive exams in forest ecology, environmental policy, or related fields.
- Strong computational skills, with expertise in data analysis, machine learning, modeling, and programming languages such as Python, R, MATLAB, or similar.
- Ability to spend several weeks in Peru carrying out fieldwork with local partners.
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present complex research concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Familiarity with the use of spatial analysis of remote sensing data for environmental conservation, ecosystem monitoring, and climate change research.
- Experience working in multidisciplinary teams with researchers from diverse backgrounds.
- Ability to communicate in Spanish is a plus as is previous field research experience in the Global South
Additional Information
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
Interested applicants should submit the following materials by November 10, 2025 through this link:
- A cover letter describing in detail how their research background and qualifications align with the job description outlined above.
- A detailed CV, including a list of conference presentations, publications, and research collaborations.
- Contact information for at least three references.
At Notre Dame, we know our impact depends on exceptional people, people like you. We are committed to fostering a vibrant, welcoming community. In keeping with our mission, we encourage applications from all who will help build and strengthen our beloved community. We strive to empower every employee to flourish, knowing your success propels Notre Dame to new heights of impact.
