The Department of Environment and Sustainability invites applications from highly motivated social science PhDs with an interest in the social dimensions of emerging approaches to confront climate change.

The successful applicant will join PI Dr. Holly Buck and the research team to conduct research on how communities in different regions of the US appraise carbon removal’s potential benefits, risks, and feasibility. We’re also exploring how publics want to engage with the research and development of carbon removal and other technologies to reduce climate risk.

In this position, you will:

• Travel to conduct interviews and focus groups at five sites across the US, both independently and in collaboration with the research team. 
• Assist in preparing a nationally representative survey.
• Work with a team of researchers to code and analyze qualitative and quantitative data.
• Write up results for peer-reviewed publications.
• Present key findings at academic conferences.
• Collaborate on briefing policymakers, NGOs, and other actors on research findings. 

Expected grant-funded travel is 5-6 months over 2 years. Remote working arrangements during non-fieldwork periods may be possible for candidates unable to relocate to Buffalo.

This position is affiliated with the Department of Environment and Sustainability at the University at Buffalo (UB), a large R1 Research University on the shores of Lake Erie. 

Funding is available for two years. The preferred start date is September 1 2021.

Working at UB comes with benefits that exceed salary alone. There are personal rewards including comprehensive health and retirement plan options. We also focus on creating and sustaining a healthy mix of work, personal and academic pursuit – all in an effort to support your work-life effectiveness. Visit our benefits website to learn about our benefit packages.

UB and the Department of Environment and Sustainability are strongly committed to diversity within our community, and we especially welcome applications from persons of color, women, Indigenous Peoples, people of all sexual orientations and gender identities, persons with disabilities, veterans, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas.

As an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer, the Research Foundation will not discriminate in its employment practices due to an applicant’s race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin and veteran or disability status.

Minimum Qualifications

• Ph.D. in a social science field required (geography, sociology, anthropology, science and technology studies, environmental studies, or related fields). Ph.D. must have been conferred within 5 years of appointment date.
• Ability to take initiative and manage projects with minimal supervision, including strong time management skills.
• Experience in qualitative research methods, such as focus groups and interviews.
• Success in communicating with and listening to people from many cultural backgrounds.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge about climate change policy and decarbonization strategies are an advantage; candidates with familiarity in other human-environment topics also invited.
• Ability to write for multiple audiences and multiple disciplines.
• Basic familiarity with survey research.

Salary Range
$60,000

Work Hours

Monday – Friday
8:00 A.M. – 5:00 A.M. 
40 hours per week.

Contact’s Name: Holly Buck

Contact’s Title: Assistant Professor of Environment and Sustainability

Contact’s Email: hbuck2@buffalo.edu

Contact’s Phone: (716) 645-0135

Deadline for applicants: 09/01/2021

Date to be filled: 09/20/2021

Number of references required
3