Research Associate - Division on Earth and Life Studies

The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine value diversity in our members, volunteers, and staff and strive for a culture of inclusion in our workplace and activities. Convening a diverse community to exchange ideas and perspectives enhances the quality of our work and increases our relevance as advisers to the nation about the most complex issues facing the nation and the world.

Keck Center

National Academies of Sciences Engineering Medicine

<br /><br />The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine provide independent, objective advice to inform policy with evidence, spark progress and innovation, and confront challenging issues for the benefit of society. We marshal knowledge and expertise across disciplines to study complex and sometimes contentious issues, reach consensus based on the evidence, and identify the best path forward. https://www.nationalacademies.org/

keywords: about the board,about the opportunity,program/project activities,writing,research,database management,communication,experience,education,knowledge, skills, & abilities,work environment

Full time

$54,240 - $67,790

Overview: Requisition Number: R0002238<br /> <br /><strong><br />OVERVIEW</strong><br /><br />The incumbent will work with two Boards within the Division on Earth and Life Studies: the Board on Agriculture and Natural Resources and the Board on Animal Health Sciences, Conservation, and Research.<br /><br /><strong><br />ABOUT THE BOARDS</strong><br /><br />The Board on Agriculture and Natural Resources (BANR) provides evidence-based policy advice on issues in agriculture, forestry, wildlife, and the use of land, water, and other natural resources. BANR clarifies scientific concerns around agricultural production and ecological stewardship; provides advice on animal nutrition and health; recommends ways to manage crop pests and diseases. BANR scans technological horizons in search of opportunities for the food and agriculture bioeconomy and explores ways to strengthen the nation's scientific capacity for improved problem-solving and innovation.<br /><br />With the ultimate goal to support the health of both animals and humans, the Board on Animal Health Sciences, Conservation, and Research (BAHSCR) provides science-based guidance on research with animals in laboratory and clinical settings, wild and semi-wild environments, zoological institutions and aquaria. Built on the strong foundation of the Institute for Laboratory Animal Research (ILAR), BAHSCR examines innovative animal models and alternative research approaches; advises on the care and use of animals in research in humane and evidence-informed ways; and enhances understanding of the need for animal studies. BAHSCR collaborates across the National Academies to address interdisciplinary challenges in wildlife management, conservation, animal welfare, One Health, and other realms.<br /><br /><strong><br />THE OPPORTUNITY</strong><br /><br />Incumbent develops pertinent background research which contributes to a greater understanding of assigned program(s) or project(s), subjects and topics. Drafts background papers. Prepares preliminary outlines of projects to determine appropriate methodology, which may involve developing an historical perspective; identifying prevailing social and economic conditions, outlining legislative considerations; regulatory impact; international involvement in issues; and future trends and implications. Performs research and analysis. Prepares data for use in summaries, fact sheets, and reports. May provide guidance to administrative staff.
Responsibilities: <p><strong>RESEARCH</strong></p> <p>Performs research and analysis. Develops information sources. Reads, analyzes, and evaluates data and literature and compiles summaries of information. Prepares preliminary outlines of projects to determine appropriate methodology. Synthesizes data for specific sections of the report or other types of output. Verifies references and checks facts of committee reports. May perform basic statistical research and analysis. Performs literature searches.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>PROGRAM/PROJECT ACTIVITIES</strong></p> <p>Attends meetings to present and receive feedback regarding study area and prepares meeting summaries. Ensures Current Projects System (CPS) is posted and updated in a timely manner, the Public Access File is maintained, and documents are properly archived. May ensure Federal Advisory Committee Act, (FACA) and Governing Board Executive Committee (GBEC) compliance. Performs administrative tasks such as corresponding with committee members, participating in the planning and execution of committee meetings, and other tasks associated with preparing for committee meetings and workshops. May assist senior staff in researching and identifying potential speakers and committee and forum members.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>WRITING</strong></p> <p>Writes technical papers or summaries. Abstracts information from scientific studies to create tables for committee review or use in committee reports. Drafts, summarizes, and edits findings and provides feedback to appropriate parties. Edits report material developed by committee members, senior staff, and consultants.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>DATABASE MANAGEMENT</strong></p> <p>Manages database to track references. Manages and maintains bibliographic and analytical databases. Documents and establishes files on all statistical analyses performed indicating methodology, variations in manipulation of data and resource materials used. Prepares and formats various survey instruments and databases to accept specified information.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>COMMUNICATION</strong></p> <p>Responds to inquiries from the public sector, sponsors and other scientific peers outside of the National Academies. Increases public awareness of studies. Identifies and contacts professional and advocacy groups interested in the committee's work. Serves as a mentor and/or resource to employees. May be responsible for training and supervising junior staff.</p>
Requirements: <p><strong>EDUCATION</strong></p> <p>Bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent knowledge. Master's degree in a related field preferred.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES</strong></p> <p>Ability to solve intellectual problems of appreciable variety and complexity using originality and ingenuity. Ability to exercise appreciable latitude for independent judgment and action. Experience working in complex environments with a high degree of organizational effectiveness<strong>:&nbsp;</strong>Ability to solve intellectual problems of appreciable variety and complexity using originality and ingenuity. Ability to exercise appreciable latitude for independent judgment and action. Experience working in complex environments with a high degree of organizational effectiveness.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>EXPERIENCE</strong></p> <p>Two years of related professional experience required.<br /><br /><br /></p> <p><strong>COMMUNICATION AND TEAMWORK</strong></p> <p>Excellent communication skills with a proven ability to effectively interact with all levels of employees. Ability to work successfully in a team environment. Ability to develop relationships with co-workers and employees in other National Academies' departments through effective communication.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>SUPERVISION</strong></p> <p>Reports to program officer/director. Sets goals with supervisor.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>WORK ENVIRONMENT</strong></p> <p>Hybrid Office environment, 40% onsite requirement, 2 days/week. Occasional travel between National Academies&rsquo; facilities and to off-site meeting/sponsor locations.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Compensation: </strong>The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine support equity, fairness, and transparency in our compensation programs. An estimated compensation range for this position is $54,240 - $67,790. Compensation offered to the selected candidate will be based on the candidate&rsquo;s relevant knowledge, skills, and work experience, commensurate with compensation of current employees in comparable positions with similar knowledge, skills, and work experience, and subject to budget parameters. Note it is not typical for a candidate to be hired at the higher end of the range.&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>The National Academies&rsquo; Statement on Diversity and Inclusion:</strong></p> <p>To promote diversity and inclusion in the sciences, engineering, and medicine, we are committed to increasing the diversity of the National Academies&rsquo; staff, members, and volunteers to reflect the populations we serve. We pledge to cultivate an environment and culture that promotes inclusion and values respectful participation of all individuals who help advance the mission of the institution.</p>