Research Associate

Job Description

Job Description

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

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

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS :

Interested applicants should submit the following materials by November 1, 2025 through this link :   https : / / apply.interfolio.com / 173979

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.

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 1, 2025 :

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.