Research Associate I/II/III

The Department of Geosciences at Auburn University invites applications for a new Research Associate position in Community Geography and Community Geographic Information Systems. The successful candidate will create collaborative and independent research and education efforts in the areas of community geography and GIS.

The Department of Geosciences is part of the College of Sciences and Mathematics at

Auburn University, located in Auburn AL. Applicants are encouraged to visit the AU

website to learn more about the Department ofGeosciences (http://www.auburn.edu/cosam/departments/geosciences/), as well as the

College of Sciences and Mathematics (http://www.auburn.edu/cosam).

The Department of Geosciences and the College of Sciences and Mathematics at Auburn

University are both committed to providing resources to enhance awareness and

appreciation of cultural and individual differences, promote community, and prepare

students, faculty, and staff to have a global impact in STEM

Auburn University is more than just an institution; it's a vibrant community where real people come together to make a difference. Our commitment to students, employees, communities, and our world runs deep, and it's reflected in every corner of our campus and beyond.

Life-Changing Impact: At Auburn, our work changes lives. Whether it's groundbreaking research, innovative teaching, administrative operations or community outreach, every effort contributes to positive change. We're not just clocking in; we're making a lasting difference in the lives of others.

How We Support You: Auburn cares for its greatest assets-its employees. Generous benefits, educational opportunities, and a supportive work environment make it a place where you can thrive. From health insurance to retirement plans, we've got you covered. Learn more about how we support employees by visiting aub.ie/working-at-auburn

Come and Stay: The median length of employment for an Auburn employee is 10 years. That's because Auburn invests in its people. We're not a revolving door; we're a family. The Auburn Family. We grow together, learn together, and build lasting relationships.

Sweet Home Alabama: The Auburn/Opelika area exudes small-town charm and warmth. With cozy traditions, excellent schools, and vibrant downtowns, it's a place where you'll feel at home. Plus, we're centrally located in the Southeast with easy access to Atlanta, Birmingham, and the Gulf of Mexico beaches.

The successful candidate will co-lead the Citizen Science GIS lab's broader research and education efforts (e.g., community geography, GIS, UAV/drones, geoscience education, student mentoring, fieldwork, and outreach). The successful candidate will also play a leadership role in the development of Geo Explorer Labs, a fleet of mobile science labs that support K-12 students and educators in learning about geoscience methods and technologies. The successful candidate will also co-lead the new vision and strategic planning priorities for Citizen Science GIS and Geo Explorer Labs in The Department of Geosciences at Auburn University. The chosen candidate will provide scientific writing to support lab efforts, including co-authorship of papers, conference presentations, book chapters, training manuals, science communication pieces, educational materials, and/or grant proposals.

Applicants should have completed their MS or MA in Geography, GIS, Geosciences, or a related field.

Level I - No relevant experience is required.

Level II - Two (2) years of experience in community-engaged research and/or outreach focused on science, technology, and society.

Level III - Four (4) years of experience in community-engaged research and/or outreach focused on science, technology, and society.

When a candidate has the required education, but lacks the required experience, they may normally apply additional appropriate education toward the experience requirement, at a rate of one year relevant education per year of required experience.

Candidates must possess excellent written and interpersonal communication skills and demonstrate a willingness to engage in collaborative work across disciplines.

Candidates that have experience working at the intersection of science, technology and society with community partner organizations to co-create research and education efforts focused on understanding environmental change using GIS, drones, GeoAI, and/or science communication techniques are desired. Candidates who have an interdisciplinary research record with expertise in the use of community-based applications of geospatial technologies, GIS, and/or drones in the US and international settings are desired. Candidates with experience developing or delivering informal science education initiatives are also desired.

AUBURN UNIVERSITY IS AN AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/ EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. It is our policy to provide equal employment and education opportunities for all individuals without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other classification protected by applicable law. The Office of Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity (AA/ EEO) strives to ensure an inclusive and equitable working, living, and learning environment for members of the Auburn University community. Please visit their website to learn more.

Applicants should upload a cover letter, resume or curriculum vitae, a two-page statement of research interests connecting existing work and future plans to the goals of Citizen Science GIS and Geo Explorer Labs, and the names and contact information for three professional references. Review of applications will begin on February 15th, 2025, and continue until the position is filled.

Questions about the position can be directed to Dr. Timothy L. Hawthorne at tlh0069@auburn.edu. Review of applications will begin February 15, 2025. Applications will continue to be accepted until a candidate accepts appointment. Start dates are somewhat flexible, but a preferred start date no later than July 2025 is desired.