Traveling Conservation Research Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Position Summary

The O'Connell Landscape Modeling lab is seeking a motivated temporary research assistant to support ongoing research on a USDA project titled "The role of wetland CRP in promoting landowner resilience and persistence through economic, ecological, and social outcomes". This position is ideal for a recent graduate interested in using applied social science to explore the human dimensions of wetland conservation.

Full Consideration date

August 26, 2026 (or as soon as possible) with no end date

Essential Job Duties

• Review literature and maintain an annotated bibliography in preparation for interview and survey analysis

• Help manage and contribute to shared research resources (e.g., Zotero library, Google drive, SharePoint)

• Review interview transcripts for accuracy and update accordingly

• Analyze interview transcripts for common themes

• Use insights from the peer-reviewed literature to assist in developing a quantitative survey

• Participate in weekly/biweekly project meetings and present progress updates to collaborators

• Support general research, project and lab management tasks, and assist with other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications

Strong organizational skills, communication, and ability to work independently are required. Prior experience with scientific communication, data management, and a science degree in a relevant field, either in progress or complete, are also required.

Preferred Qualifications

Prior experience in wetland conservation research and working with private landowners is desired, as well as recent completion of CITI Program Humanistic and Behavioral Research training.

Conditions of Employment

This position is a temporary research position. Remote participation is allowed.

Supervision

Supervision is provided by Dr. O'Connell and graduate students within the O'Connell Research Lab. Katherine Graham, a collaborator with Ducks Unlimited, will also assist in supervisory and project tasks. Progress is monitored through weekly to biweekly meetings.

To apply, please upload the following applicant documents. Ensure your materials fully address the required and preferred job qualifications of the position. Please note, applicants may redact information from their application materials that identifies their age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.

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