Senior Scientist
Organization: TerrAdapt
About TerrAdapt: TerrAdapt is a non-profit organization with a mission to help our partners see the risks to biodiversity posed by our rapidly changing environment and act strategically to mitigate them. We empower communities and organizations with the data and tools they need to track emerging threats and opportunities at scale, see the pattern in the noise, communicate the need for action, and prioritize where to implement measures that ultimately foster functioning, diverse, and resilient natural systems.
Location: Remote from anywhere in the continental US
Reports to: Executive Director
FLSA status: Full-time exempt
Position Summary: The Senior Scientist at TerrAdapt is a highly experienced and technically proficient scientific leader responsible for working with our team to design, lead, and deliver critical projects that advance our mission. This individual will contribute significantly to TerrAdapt's capacity to deliver rigorous, actionable, and evidence-based scientific insights to our partners, develop innovative solutions to real-world conservation science problems, and translate complex methodology and data into practical applications and compelling communications. The Senior Scientist will also play a key role in engaging with our diverse partners globally, both to co-produce science for conservation and increase our partner base.
Key Responsibilities:
Applied Science & Project Leadership:
- Lead the conceptualization, design, and co-development of complex applied science projects related to conservation of biodiversity, ecological resilience, natural resources management, and climate adaptation.
- Work with our team and partners to apply (and at times develop) advanced methods in remote sensing, spatial analysis, and ecological modeling to generate dynamic environmental monitoring systems that track ecological drivers that affect species and ecosystems across a wide variety of habitats in regions around the globe.
- Work with our team and partners to build systems that dynamically assess impacts of environmental change on habitat and connectivity for species and ecosystems of conservation concern.
- Perform spatial statistical analysis of dynamic datasets above to understand ecological patterns and drivers of change on the landscape.
- Work with our team and partners to co-develop conservation designs and strategies, using the above dynamic monitoring systems to inform the design and to conduct effectiveness monitoring.
Engagement and Collaboration:
- Foster strong partnerships with external organizations across a spectrum from local, state, and federal agencies to NGO’s, Indigenous governments, and local community stakeholders.
- Co-author high-quality, peer-reviewed scientific publications, technical reports, policy briefs, and white papers, and present our science at national and international scientific conferences, workshops, and stakeholder meetings.
- Translate complex scientific information into clear, accessible, and actionable insights for diverse audiences, including policymakers, practitioners, and the public.
- Lead and contribute to the development of competitive grant proposals and funding applications.
Qualifications:
- Education: Ph.D. required in a relevant scientific discipline such as Ecology, Environmental Science, Conservation Biology, Wildlife Biology, or a closely related field.
- Experience:
- Minimum of 5+ years of post-doctoral experience in applied conservation science research, with a strong focus on wildlife conservation, environmental monitoring and assessment, climate change adaptation, ecological resilience, or related field.
- Skills:
- Advanced Scientific Expertise: Deep theoretical and practical knowledge in remote sensing, spatial analysis, and ecological modeling as well as thorough knowledge of conservation science, planning, and application.
- Strong Analytical & Methodological Skills: High proficiency in ecological modeling and analysis using the languages R and Python and high proficiency using Google Earth Engine.
- Excellent Written & Verbal Communication: Ability to articulate complex scientific concepts clearly and concisely to both technical and non-technical audiences.
- Project Management: Proven ability to manage multiple science projects simultaneously, meet deadlines, and work within budgets.
- Collaborative Spirit: Demonstrated ability to work effectively in interdisciplinary teams and build productive external partnerships.
- Problem-Solving & Innovation: Capacity to identify research gaps, develop creative solutions, and drive scientific innovation.
- Values Alignment:
- Strong commitment to TerrAdapt’s mission of helping our partners track and respond to environmental change and meet their conservation mandates.
Dedication to scientific integrity, ethical research and partnering practices, and evidence-based decision-making.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Strong track record of scientific publications and presentations at scientific conferences.
- Prior experience in a non-profit or government research setting.
- Proven ability to work effectively in a remote and geographically dispersed team environment
Working Conditions:
- This is a remote position, requiring a reliable internet connection and a dedicated workspace free from distractions.
- Occasional travel may be required for fieldwork, conferences, team meetings, or partner engagements.
- Ability to work flexible hours occasionally to accommodate different time zones or urgent project needs.
To Apply: Please submit a comprehensive application package including:
- A detailed cover letter highlighting your relevant scientific experience, research interests, and how your skills align with TerrAdapt's mission.
- Your curriculum vitae (CV) including a list of publications.
- Contact information for three professional references.
Applications should be sent to [email protected]
Application Deadline: Rolling until filled. Start Date: flexible based on candidate availability
TerrAdapt is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive team. We strongly encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds.