Assistant Research Scientist: Arizona State University (ASU) is seeking a dynamic and broadly trained social scientist to join the Arizona Water Innovation Initiative (AWII) as an Assistant Research Scientist. This full-time, benefits-eligible position focuses on participatory qualitative research within the “Arizona Water for All” program. The successful candidate will lead community-based research and dissemination activities to support the program’s justice-oriented goals.
Assistant Research Scientist, Community-Based
Designation: Assistant Research Scientist, Community-Based
Research Area: Qualitative community-based research, participatory action research, ethnography, stakeholder coordination
Location: Tempe, AZ
Eligibility/Qualification:
| Criteria | Required | Desired |
|---|---|---|
| Education | PhD in Anthropology, Sociology, Environmental Social Science, or related discipline | |
| Experience | Minimum 3 years in qualitative or community-based research | Proven record of successful grant-seeking |
| Expertise | Expertise in qualitative data management | |
| Publications | Substantial peer-reviewed publication record | |
| Languages | Spanish language capacities | |
| Mentoring | Proven record of student research mentoring | |
| Community Engagement | Prior experience with vulnerable communities |
Job Description: Under the direction of Dr. Amber Wutich, the Assistant Research Scientist will:
- Coordinate and direct qualitative community research activities within the AWII.
- Ensure research goals are met within specified priorities, time, and ethical standards.
- Manage community-based social science research activities, including stakeholder coordination, recruiting, and collaboration.
- Conduct ethnographic/qualitative research, including interviews, focus groups, and coding.
- Develop and present research outputs such as reports and visualizations for diverse audiences.
- Improve community-based research efficiency, ethics, and impact by coordinating across research teams.
- Supervise and support field researchers, including student workers and citizen scientists.
- Participate in AWII program management meetings and prepare relevant content.
- Assist in developing proposals and strategies to fund projects and programs.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Working Environment:
- Office setting with extended periods of sitting and computer use.
- Driving and meeting with communities across Arizona, working in various indoor and outdoor conditions.
- Occasional physical activity, including lifting up to 25 pounds.
- Ability to quickly adapt to changing priorities and resolve conflicts.
- Clear and regular communication is essential.
- Flexible working schedule to accommodate projects and initiatives.
How to Apply: To apply for this position, submit the following materials electronically:
- Detailed cover letter describing research interests, relevant experience, and vision for the position.
- Current curriculum vitae.
- Contact information for three professional references (name, title, affiliation, email address, phone number).
Submit applications to Sylvia Almanza. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Review of applications will begin on July 1, 2024, and will continue every Friday until the position is filled.
Last Date to Apply: Review of applications will begin on July 1, 2024. If not filled, reviews will occur every Friday thereafter until the search is closed.
Join us in making a significant impact on Arizona’s water sustainability and community well-being!
