The New School

Responsibilities:

The Urban Systems Lab (USL) at The New School is seeking a Research Assistant to support development of a chapter for the first U.S. National Nature Assessment. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a groundbreaking federal effort to take stock of U.S. lands, waters, wildlife and the benefits they provide.

The Urban Systems Lab is an interdisciplinary research, design and practice space at The New School that provides knowledge and analysis for developing more equitable, resilient, and sustainable cities. The Lab’s work advances cutting edge science, data visualization, and computation to develop systemic solutions to social and environmental challenges driving inequity and injustice in urban areas. We bring together designers, urban ecologists, scientists, researchers and policymakers with the goal to improve the lives of those most vulnerable, and to enhance decision making and science communication from local to global scales. To learn more visit: http://urbansystemslab.com

The Schools of Public Engagement comprise the School of Media Studies, the School of Undergraduate Studies, the Milano School of Policy, Management, and Environment, the Creative Writing Program, and the Julien J. Studley Graduate Programs in International Affairs, as well as several programs, research centers and institutes; the Urban Systems Lab is among them. You can find more information on The Schools of Public Engagement here: https://www.newschool.edu/public-engagement/

The New School, a private university in New York City’s Greenwich Village, serves undergraduate and graduate students across a range of fields with a commitment to bringing practices in design and social research to studying issues of our time and challenging students to become engaged citizens dedicated to solving problems and contributing to the public good.

The New School is strongly committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace and particularly seeks applications from members of underrepresented groups, as well as candidates who share this commitment.

This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement between SENS-UAW, Local 7902 and the University.

Position Overview

This role will support the Urban Systems Lab Director in development of a chapter for the first U.S. National Nature Assessment (NNA1). The Research Assistant will work closely with the Lab’s Director, Associate, and Assistant Directors to conduct background literature research, coordinate meetings with chapter authors, manage documents and case studies, and provide support for development of assessment materials needed to complete the chapter. The Research Assistant will have an opportunity to work with a diverse team of climate scientists, students, faculty, and other researchers contributing to this effort. This position will report to the Director of the Lab.

Responsibilities

1. Literature Review and Data Collection

• Conduct literature reviews to gather relevant scientific studies, case studies, reports, and data related to “bright spots” in nature restoration, conservation, and protection in the United States.
• Identify and compile data sources from government agencies, academic institutions, non-profit organizations, and other credible sources.
• Organize and synthesize collected information in a structured and accessible manner.

2. Research Support

• Assist the chapter authors maintaining research articles and other publications needed for analysis and writing.
• Proofread and edit draft materials, ensuring consistency with academic standards and the overall style guidelines of the National Nature Assessment.

3. Coordination and Communication

• Facilitate communication and information-sharing between the chapter authors and other contributors or stakeholders involved in the assessment process.
• Attend relevant meetings, take notes, and follow up on action items as required.
• Maintain organized records and documentation of research activities and findings.

WORK MODE: In-person — On-campus

Hourly Rate: $29.00 (Maximum of 15 hrs/week)

Minimum Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications

• Currently enrolled or have completed a degree program (BS or Masters) in environmental science, ecology, biology or related fields.
• Strong research and analytical skills, with experience in conducting literature reviews and data analysis.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly and concisely.
• Attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy and quality in research work.
• Proficiency in relevant software and tools for data analysis, visualization, and document preparation (e.g., Google Drive, Microsoft Office Teams, reference management software such as Zotero).
• Strong research and analytical skills, with experience in conducting literature reviews and data analysis.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Experience with conducting research on themes related to urban nature, ecology, climate change, environmental justice and related concepts
• Strong organizational, time-management, communication and writing skills, with the ability to handle multiple tasks, meet deadlines and coordinate research, database management, and input from collaborators in the team.
• Ability to adhere to university COVID-19 policies.

Interested candidates must submit:

1. Cover Letter
2. Current CV
3. Work samples from portfolio and examples of relevant work experience

Preferred Qualifications: Job Family: Schools of Public Engagement