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A complete application package consists of:

• An application
• Transcript(s) – For this opportunity, an unofficial transcript or copy of the student academic records printed by the applicant or by academic advisors from internal institution systems may be submitted. Click Here for detailed information about acceptable transcripts.
• A current resume/CV
• Two educational or professional recommendations. Applications need at least one recommendation submitted in order to be viewed by the mentor.

All documents must be in English or include an official English translation.

*Applications will be reviewed on a rolling-basis, starting October 24, 2022.

USFS Office/Lab and Location:  A fellowship opportunity is available to engage with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Northwest Climate Hub (NWCH). This fellowship is based in the USDA Forest Service Pacific Northwest Research Station. The NWCH serves Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington by delivering science-based, region-specific technologies and practical information for climate-informed decision making. Additional information about the NWCH can be found at https://www.climatehubs.usda.gov/hubs/northwest.

Research Project: Together with NWCH staff, the selected fellow will focus on supporting the integration of climate change in tribal forest management plans. The fellow will get an opportunity to develop relationships with Tribes in Idaho, Oregon, Washington, and Alaska, as well as scientists at the Pacific Northwest Research Station. More specifically, together with NWCH staff, the fellow will contribute to efforts to:

• Synthesize and communicate the latest research on forest carbon and the effects of climate change on ecosystems, watersheds, and other resources in Idaho, Oregon, Washington, and Alaska.
• Co-develop fact sheets, decision tools, and other resources for Tribes to support integration of climate change consideration in forest management.

Learning Objectives:  While much of the fellow’s efforts will focus on assisting with the development of producing materials to support Tribal forest management decisions, they may also have the opportunity to contribute to scientific publications.

In this unique role, the fellow can expect to develop skills and knowledge in:

• Science translation and communication through engagement with Tribes, land managers, and scientists
• The policy and practices that shape management of forests on Tribal lands.
• Diverse scientific disciplines, including ecology, climate change, hydrology, social science, and related fields

 The participant will be located in Olympia, Washington (with the NWCH director) or Corvallis, Oregon (with other staff). There will be opportunities for professional development, including training and travel for field visits.

Mentor: The mentor for this opportunity is Jessica Halofsky (jessica.halofsky@usda.gov). If you have questions about the nature of the research please contact the mentor.

Anticipated Appointment Start Date: November 2022.  Start date is flexible and negotiable, and will depend on a variety of factors.

Appointment Length: The appointment will initially be for one year, but may be extended upon recommendation of USFS and is contingent on the availability of funds.

Level of Participation: The appointment is full-time.

Participant Stipend: The participant will receive a monthly stipend commensurate with educational level and experience. The current stipend for this opportunity will be $66,531 to $73,098 per year, depending on experience. This appointment offers a health insurance allowance for the participant as well as a travel/training allowance.

Citizenship Requirements: This opportunity is available to U.S. citizens, Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR), and foreign nationals. Non-U.S. citizen applicants should refer to the Guidelines for Non-U.S. Citizens Details page of the program website for information about the valid immigration statuses that are acceptable for program participation.

ORISE Information: This program, administered by ORAU through its contract with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to manage the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE), was established through an interagency agreement between DOE and USFS. Participants do not become employees of USDA, USFS, DOE or the program administrator, and there are no employment-related benefits. Proof of health insurance is required for participation in this program. Health insurance can be obtained through ORISE.

Questions: Please visit our Program Website. After reading, if you have additional questions about the application process please email USForestService@orise.orau.gov and include the reference code for this opportunity. 

The qualified candidate should have received a master's or doctoral degree in one of the relevant fields or be currently pursuing one of the degrees and will reach completion by the start date of the appointment. Degree must have been received within five years of the appointment start date.

Individuals enrolled in, or graduated from, Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs) students and/or graduates are encouraged to apply.

Preferred skills:

• A MS in natural or social science with demonstrated experience in natural resource management is preferred.
• Strong candidates for the fellowship should have:
  • Experience engaging with American Indian and Alaska Native Tribal Nations and awareness of their sovereign rights
  • Demonstrated success in science communication related to natural resource management
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills applicable in a range of contexts
  • Advanced computer skills, especially in Microsoft Office applications and geospatial applications
  • Knowledge of key impacts of climate change on forests, other ecosystems, and communities 

• Degree: Master's Degree or Doctoral Degree received within the last 60 months or currently pursuing.
• Discipline(s):
  • Earth and Geosciences (3 )
  • Environmental and Marine Sciences (14 )
  • Life Health and Medical Sciences (10 )
  • Social and Behavioral Sciences (4 )
• Veteran Status: Veterans Preference, degree received within the last 120 month(s).