Research Associate, Urban Harbors Institute

General Summary: 

Under the general supervision of the Director, the successful candidate will conduct multi-disciplinary research focused on the marine and coastal environment and port and harbor areas.  S/he will support senior staff, conducting work in one or more of the following disciplines: marine affairs, working waterfront planning, environmental science and policy, planning, natural resources economics or management or related fields.  The incumbent will engage in collaborative research, education and training, public service, and other activities of the Institute. The Research Associate will assist with project development and management including writing proposals, leading projects, and supervising students. This position will also work with the rest of the institute to complete administrative tasks as needed, including checking mail and email, answering phones, and ordering supplies.

Examples of Duties: 

• Conduct research related to public policy, planning, laws, regulations and management of coastal, marine and watershed resources and present findings (multi-media, oral, written);
• Identify funding opportunities and support the development of grant proposals;
• Assist governments in the processes of developing and adopting policies, management plans and implementing strategies;
• Lead and/or assist with public outreach efforts to increase understanding of coastal and ocean issues both on and off campus, including public meetings, online surveys, and remote and in-person presentations and events;
• Collaborate with unit personnel to organize and conduct technical training workshops on relevant coastal/environmental topics for target audiences, which may include academics, professionals or the public;
• Manage complex partnerships, providing both content knowledge and administrative services;
• Prepare and present presentations at conferences and meetings;
• Assist with supervision of student interns engaged in work with the Institute;
• Lead the design and production of text and graphics for articles, reports, newsletters, fact sheets and websites.

Qualifications: 

Master’s Degree in marine policy, marine sciences or a closely related field, with 2-3 years relevant experience required.  Competency with statistical analysis methods and software strongly preferred.  Web design experience a plus.

• Practical and demonstrated experience using research tools in an applied setting, data analysis, report writing, and the ability to evaluate complex issues and policies
• Knowledge of and experience with supervision of students, and project management – including tracking budgets, adhering to timelines, and maintaining communication with project partners and funders;
• Demonstrated experience with grant writing, public outreach and public policy-making processes;
• Strong and demonstrated computer experience in the use of various word processing, database, spreadsheet and presentation applications. 

Application Instructions: 

Please apply online with your resume, cover letter and list of three professional references.

Review of candidates will begin following the application closing date. 

Only Internal candidates in the Professional Staff Bargaining Unit will be considered during the first 10 business days of the posting.  All other candidates will be considered after that period. 

Salary Ranges for the appropriate Pay Grade can be found at the following link: 

Grade:32

Salary Ranges

This is an exempt union position. This is a grant funded position with a current end date of September 30, 2022, subject to renewal contingent on funding and university needs.

All official salary offers must be approved by Human Resources.

UMass Boston requires all employees to be vaccinated against COVID-19 and to confirm proof of their vaccination status including booster. Exemptions from the vaccine requirement will be permitted only for qualifying religious or medical reasons. Regardless of vaccination status, you must wear a face covering in public indoor spaces on campus.