Opportunity

A research opportunity is available with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), located in St. Paul, Minnesota.

The USGS mission is to monitor, analyze, and predict current and evolving dynamics of complex human and natural Earth-system interactions and to deliver actionable intelligence at scales and timeframes relevant to decision makers. As the Nation's largest water, earth, and biological science and civilian mapping agency, USGS collects, monitors, analyzes, and provides science about natural resource conditions, issues, and problems.

This project will synthesize research on the public values related to climate adaptation in natural resource management, including:

1. Assessing prior research on climate communication, values, and adaptation
2. Compiling key research methods and study findings to develop a comprehensive dataset related to public values and climate adaptation

The selected participant will have the opportunity to fill critical information gaps in human values, build expertise in climate adaptation science, hone skills in science communication, better understand the needs of the natural resource management community, engage with agency partners, and gain valuable experience being a part of a partnership-driven program within a federal science agency.

The mentor for this opportunity is Olivia LeDee ([email protected]). If you have questions about the nature of the research please contact the mentor.

Qualifications:

The qualified candidate should be currently pursuing or have received an associate's, bachelor's, or master's degree in the one of the relevant fields. Degree must have been received within the past year, or anticipated to be received by 5/29/2026.

Demonstrated ability to:

• Review information and literature regarding public values and climate adaptation in natural resource management.
• Compile information for prior research studies related to methods, findings, and implications.
• Develop and maintain database of compiled information.
• Collaborate as part of interdisciplinary team of scientists and resource managers.

Eligibility:

• Degree: Associate's Degree, Bachelor's Degree, or Master's Degree received within the last 12 months or anticipated to be received by 5/29/2026 12:00:00 AM.
• Discipline(s):
  • Environmental and Marine Sciences
  • Social and Behavioral Sciences

Apply online. A complete application package consists of:

• An application
• Transcript(s) – For this opportunity, an unofficial transcript or copy of the student academic records printed by the applicant or by academic advisors from internal institution systems may be submitted.  Click Here for detailed information about acceptable transcripts.
• A current resume/CV
• Two educational or professional recommendations.

All documents must be in English or include an official English translation.