Research Opportunities
Postdoctoral Research Associate
The High Meadows Environmental Institute (HMEI), invites applications for postdoctoral research associates and more senior research positions focusing on the scientific, technical, policy, and human dimensions of environmental issues. These areas include issues surrounding global change; energy and climate; biogeochemical cycles; molecular geochemistry; biodiversity; conservation; environmental science and policy; infectious disease and global health; and sustainable development in impoverished and resource-challenged regions of the world. Appointments are for one year with the possibility of renewal based upon satisfactory performance and continued funding. This position is subject to the University’s background check policy.
Applicants must apply online at https://www.princeton.edu/acad-positions/position/30821 and submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, a brief statement of research interest, and names and contact information for three references. All materials must be submitted online.
Candidates are required to have a Ph.D. degree in a related field.
Requisition No: D-24-HME-00001
Postdoctoral Research Associate, Plant Pathogens
The High Meadows Environmental Institute (HMEI), at Princeton University invites applications for a post-doctoral or more senior position(s) to work with Professor Jess Metcalf and Dr. Elena Shevliakova on research at the interface of plant pathogens and global climate change, observed and projected into the future. The successful candidate will have an interest in ecological questions concerning infectious diseases of plants in natural and agricultural systems and experience working with remotely sensed data.
Candidates are required to have a Ph.D. in quantitative ecology, climate sciences, population biology, applied mathematics, statistics, or an equivalent discipline. Additional experience in climate, meteorological, or environmental data analysis or related topics is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a track record of publication; have strong organizational, written, and oral communication skills; and be able to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
Applicants must apply online at www.princeton.edu/acad-positions/position/31903 and submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, a brief statement of research interest, and names and contact information for three references. All materials must be submitted online.
This position is subject to the University’s background check policy.
Requisition No: D-24-HME-00003
Postdoctoral Research Associate – StratosphericClimate Modeling
The High Meadows Environmental Institute (HMEI), formerly the Princeton Environmental Institute (PEI), invites applications for a postdoctoral research associate(s) or a more senior researcher(s) position to join Dr. Gabriel Vecchi’s research group (https://vecchi.princeton.edu), for a project in collaboration with Drs. Larry Horowitz (https://www.gfdl.noaa.gov/larry-horowitz-homepage/) and Vaishali Naik (https://www.gfdl.noaa.gov/vaishali-naik-s-homepage/) at NOAA’s Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory (GFDL). The research will involve exploring the impacts of stratospheric aerosols on global radiation, stratospheric chemistry and circulation, and global climate and extremes, principally using a hierarchy of climate modeling experiments.
The Term of appointment is based on rank. Positions at the postdoctoral rank are for one year with the possibility of renewal pending satisfactory performance and continued funding; those hired at more senior ranks may have multi-year appointments.
Applicants must apply online at https://www.princeton.edu/acad-positions/position/34081 and submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, a brief statement of research interest, and names and contact information for three references. All materials must be submitted online.
Required Qualifications: Ph.D. in a relevant science or engineering field prior to starting this position is required. Candidates from subsets of fields including atmospheric and climate sciences (particularly in the subdisciplines of atmospheric chemistry and atmospheric/climate dynamics), physics and applied mathematics are particularly encouraged to apply.
Experience with climate model analysis and simulation, and processing/analyzing large data sets and model outputs is needed. Candidates with experience in designing and implementing climate model experiments are particularly encouraged to apply.
Expertise in computer programming and high-performance computing is needed. A demonstrated ability to bring scientific research to publication is required.
This position is subject to the University’s background check policy. The work location for this position is in-person on campus at Princeton University.
Requisition No: D-24-HME-00010
Postdoctoral Research Associate – Tropical Cyclones Climate Modeling
The High Meadows Environmental Institute (HMEI) invites applications for a postdoctoral research associate(s) or a more senior research position to join Dr. Gabriel Vecchi’s research group (https://vecchi.princeton.edu) The research will involve modeling and understanding multi-decadal to centennial changes in the statistics of tropical cyclones over the past millennium, recent historical era and the coming centuries, using a combination of high-resolution climate modeling, machine learning/artificial intelligence (ML/AI) techniques, theory and observational analysis.
The Term of appointment is based on rank. Positions at the postdoctoral rank are for one year with the possibility of renewal pending satisfactory performance and continued funding; those hired at more senior ranks may have multi-year appointments.
Applicants must apply online at https://www.princeton.edu/acad-positions/position/34061 and submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, a brief statement of research interest, and names and contact information for three references. All materials must be submitted online.
Required Qualifications: Ph.D. in a relevant science or engineering field prior to starting this position is required. Candidates from subsets of fields including atmospheric and climate sciences, computer science, physics and applied mathematics are particularly encouraged to apply.
Experience with climate model analysis, modern statistical methods, and processing/analyzing large data sets and model outputs is needed.
Expertise in computer programming and high-performance computing is needed. A demonstrated ability to bring scientific research to publication is required.
This position is subject to the University’s background check policy. The work location for this position is in-person on campus at Princeton University.
Requisition No: D-24-HME-00009
Faculty Opportunities
Assistant Professor, Associate or Full Professor, Biodiversity
High Meadows Environmental Institute – the interdisciplinary center of environmental research, education, and outreach at Princeton University – seeks distinguished candidates for an appointment (tenured or tenure-track) in the study of biodiversity. The global loss of biodiversity is widely recognized as one of the greatest challenges facing humanity, and we seek candidates whose work advances our fundamental understanding of the biodiversity crisis and its consequences for ecosystem function and human welfare. The individual should have a demonstrated record of excellence in scholarship and a vision for innovative teaching in this field.
We seek a broad thinker who can integrate perspectives across one or more disciplines including ecology and evolutionary biology, atmospheric and oceanic sciences, geosciences, chemistry, engineering, hydrology, policy and/or applied mathematics. The successful candidate will be jointly appointed in the department best suited to their research and in the High Meadows Environmental Institute. Fields of specialization are open.
High Meadows Environmental Institute (HMEI) is a globally recognized center for environmental research and teaching with more than 140 associated faculty members representing 30 academic disciplines whose research and teaching focuses on the scientific, technical, policy, and human dimensions of environmental issues. The Institute has legacy strengths in studies of the global climate system, biogeochemistry of the oceans and atmosphere, biocomplexity, and ecohydrology including several long-term interdisciplinary projects focused on climate and energy, biodiversity, water and the environment, urban sustainability, and climate and disease.
Applicants should apply online at www.princeton.edu/acad-positions/position/32481 and should submit a letter of interest along with a vita, and a list of three potential referees. The letter of interest should include the candidate’s vision of the field and identify major unanswered questions of interest to the candidate. Evaluation of applicants will begin on January 16, 2024 and continue until the position is filled.
Requisition No: D-24-HME-00007
Currie C. and Thomas A. Barron Visiting Professor in the Environment and Humanities
Princeton University seeks to appoint a distinguished humanist whose work is related to the environment for the 2025-2026 academic year. The on-campus position will provide salary plus benefits for the academic year. The funds may be used to supplement a sabbatical leave.
The position is supported by the High Meadows Environmental Institute – the interdisciplinary center of environmental research, education, and outreach at Princeton University. Persons appointed will hold the title of the Currie C. and Thomas A. Barron Visiting Professor in the Environment and Humanities.
Applicants should be accomplished scholars on leave from their home institution, who have exceptional records of publication and teaching and whose interests lie at the intersection of environmental issues and the humanities. Of particular interest are scholars with expertise and interests related to air and water sustainability, biodiversity, energy, environmental justice, food system change, global health, global warming, and wilderness histories and futures. There is no geographic limitation. Backgrounds in American studies, settler colonial studies, Indigenous studies, environmental art and media, environmental history, literature and environment, cultural anthropology and geography, and religion and ecology are especially welcome.
In addition to accomplished scholars, environmental practitioners who may not hold a university position but who have a distinguished record as leaders in national environmental organizations or in the arts may also qualify for the Barron Visiting position.
The visitor(s) will have a shared appointment in the High Meadows Environmental Institute and a supporting department at Princeton University. The incumbent Barron Visitor(s) will be expected to contribute to the life of this vibrant academic center and to cultivate dialogue at the intersection of the humanities and the environment at Princeton. They will be expected to teach an average of one course per semester subject to sufficient enrollment and approval by the Dean of the Faculty and to mentor/advise two to three students on independent projects. Other activities may include the organization of University/public lectures and forums on related topics. Remaining duty time may be devoted to research and writing and other professional pursuits.
The incumbent’s annual salary will be determined based upon their salary at the home institution, not to exceed the level established for an equivalent rank of associate or full professor in the supporting department.
Applications should include (1) a cover letter; (2) a brief description of any previous experience in interdisciplinary and/or collaborative research; (3) a statement of research and teaching plans at the intersection of environment and humanities; (4) a current curriculum vitae and (5) for scholars on sabbatical leave, an indication of and justification for the level of support requested. A short list of finalists will be asked to submit further materials. The names and contact information for three references should be indicated as part of the application. However, HMEI will request letters only for the finalists.
The work location for this position is in-person on campus at Princeton University.
To apply, please visit www.princeton.edu/acad-positions/position/34221. Applications received before November 1, 2024, 11:59 pm eastern time, will be given full consideration. Questions about the application process may be directed to Katharine Hackett at khackett@princeton.edu.
Requisition No: D-24-HME-00011
Administrative Opportunities
Sr. Administrative Coordinator
High Meadows Environmental Institute (HMEI) seeks an extremely capable, poised, and skilled individual for the role of Assistant to the Executive Director. The incumbent will provide high level support to HMEI’s Executive Director (ED), support leadership and governance functions, and contribute to the management and coordination of priority projects and initiatives.
The Assistant to the Executive Director is an integral member of HMEI’s senior administrative team at a time of increased visibility and University expectations for the Institute.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Manage dynamic and highly productive executive office including responsibilities for scheduling, communications, correspondence, event planning, logistics, and meeting support to facilitate the achievement of HMEI’s strategic priorities.
Provide administrative and project-specific support to facilitate ED’s work and management responsibilities. Manage ED’s calendar including scheduling and organization of appointments with program directors, faculty, staff, students, alumni/donors, University administrators, and collaborators both internal and external to the University.
Draft correspondence and assist with email. Compile and distribute materials in advance of meetings and as follow-up. Maintain files. Assist in the preparation of presentations. Develop travel itineraries including travel arrangements, accommodations, support documentation and reimbursements.
Facilitate office routines and to assure office function. Maintain master calendar of HMEI events and program deadlines for use in strategic documents and planning. Coordinate meetings/gatherings of HMEI staff including staff meetings, retreats, and other activities. Draft and circulate agendas. Record and maintain minutes. Participate with other members of HMEI’s senior staff to plan and coordinate activities in support of HMEI’s research and teaching missions.
Support strategic initiatives and undertake special projects at the direction of Executive Director. Provide administrative support and serve as a reliable and informed point of contact for high visibility HMEI programs and collaborations including HMEI Environmental Fellows program, The Next Forever Residency Program, the Grand Challenges Program, and the Barron Visiting Professorship. Manage campus-wide call(s) for proposals. Collect and track applications. Support review and selection of faculty awards. Maintain records of program activity and participation.
Provide administrative support for joint faculty searches and appointments involving multiple academic departments on an ‘as needed’ basis. Liaise with faculty, department chairs/managers in partnering departments to plan and coordinate candidate/guest visits and job talks. Serve as point of contact for search candidates throughout the hiring process.
Plan, coordinate, and implement select events including those involving VIPs, alumni/donors, and other high profile visitors. Coordinate with university/external contractors as necessary.
Compile information and content for inclusion in proposals, strategic documents, and reports. Prepare HMEI Annual Report.
Assist with donor/stewardship activities. Serve as point of contact for Office of Advancement on donor relations and stewardship. Maintain stewardship files, donor/stakeholder contact lists, and records of donor activity/contact. Draft correspondence and gift acknowledgments for executive signature. Coordinate with Office of Advancement to schedule and support donor visits including preparation and circulation of briefing memorandum.
Facilitate HMEI governance functions. Provide administrative support for meetings of HMEI’s Faculty, HMEI’s external Advisory Council, and other committees as organized and implemented to transact the business of HMEI. Support compilation and circulation of meeting materials including agenda. Prepare, maintain, and distribute meeting minutes. Maintain HMEI Faculty rosters/list servs involving 140+ faculty and their departmental affiliations.
QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience and a minimum of 4-6 years of related experience, preferably working in a fast-paced, high-pressure office setting involving senior leadership/administrator(s).
Ability to maintain poise and professionalism and thrive in a fast-paced office setting.
Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills. Reliable, resourceful, and organized. Keen attention to detail. Customer-focused orientation. Self-starter with demonstrated ability to take initiative, prioritize, work autonomously, and handle multiple responsibilities simultaneously. Ability to handle and maneuver independently among competing priorities. Flexible to assume a range of assignments and to work cooperatively and effectively with others in a busy and productive work environment. Must be able to handle high pressure situations in a tactful and calm manner and meet deadlines. Possess sound judgment and discretion to maintain confidentiality in handling sensitive information. Professional demeanor and ability to manage positive relationships with all members of the University community.
Excellent computer skills using Microsoft Office suite.
Applicants must apply online and submit a cover letter and curriculum vitae and will be asked to produce a writing sample as part of the application process.
Preferred Qualifications: Knowledge/experience of Princeton University community is a plus.
Requisition No: 2024-18895