Announcing Two Postdoctoral Fellowship Opportunities

The International Arctic Research Center (IARC) at the University of Alaska Fairbanks is recruiting two Postdoctoral Fellows to join its interdisciplinary team and contribute to cutting-edge research on actionable science and science communication. Both positions provide opportunities to work in highly collaborative environments, engage with diverse partners, and build transdisciplinary research skills while addressing critical challenges related to climate change adaptation and decision-making.

For questions and more information, please contact Kristin Timm at kmtimm@alaska.edu


Postdoctoral Fellow in Climate Program Evaluation (Alaska Climate Adaptation Science Center)

This position focuses on evaluating approaches to science communication and actionable science, capacity building in engaged research methods, and assessing research-practice partnerships or boundary-spanning activities. The fellow will lead and support research initiatives to enhance the value and use of evidence in decision-making processes. Key responsibilities include designing and conducting social science research studies, developing evaluation frameworks, building capacity for engaged research, and fostering partnerships with community, government, and academic collaborators. This position is supervised by Dr. Kristin Timm in collaboration with the AK CASC leadership team.

Read the full description or apply: https://careers.alaska.edu/jobs/post-doctoral-fellow-climate-program-evaluation-fairbanks-alaska-united-states


Postdoctoral Fellow in Avalanche Science Communication

This position is part of an NSF-funded project aimed at improving the communication of future snow avalanche models to Alaska decision-makers across sectors such as government, transportation, and recreation. The fellow will investigate topics including audience perceptions, communicating model uncertainty, and fostering actionable science outcomes. Responsibilities include designing and leading research initiatives, developing communication strategies, engagement with partners, and publishing research. The fellow will work under the supervision of Dr. Kristin Timm and with Dr. Gabriel Wolken (IARC and State of Alaska Division of Geological and Geophysical Surveys).

Read the full description or apply: https://careers.alaska.edu/jobs/post-doctoral-fellow-avalanche-science-communication-fairbanks-alaska-united-states


About IARC and the AK CASC: Both positions are based at IARC, a highly productive, interdisciplinary research center that prioritizes understanding the Arctic to make a difference. With over 100 researchers spanning natural, physical, and social sciences, IARC fosters engaged research and societal impact. The Alaska Climate Adaptation Science Center (AK CASC), hosted by IARC, provides tools and information to address the impacts of climate change on natural and cultural resources.

We value the collaboration that comes with working at UAF’s Troth Yeddha’ campus in Fairbanks, Alaska. We’ll also consider applicants who are willing to work remote within the state of Alaska.

Qualifications: Applicants must hold a PhD in the social sciences (i.e., communication, political science, science and technology studies, etc.) and demonstrate experience or strong interest in qualitative and/or quantitative research methods, transdisciplinary teamwork, and societally engaged research methods. Ideal candidates will exhibit creativity, initiative, and excellent oral and written communication skills. Both positions emphasize professional development, interdisciplinary training, and work-life balance, offering opportunities to build skills and networks for future careers in research, government, and beyond.