*Applications will be reviewed on a rolling-basis.

USGS Office/Lab and Location: A research opportunity is currently available with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) located in Amherst, Massachusetts. The opportunity may also be remote.

The USGS mission is to monitor, analyze, and predict current and evolving dynamics of complex human and natural Earth-system interactions and to deliver actionable intelligence at scales and timeframes relevant to decision makers. As the Nation's largest water, earth, and biological science and civilian mapping agency, USGS collects, monitors, analyzes, and provides science about natural resource conditions, issues, and problems. 

Research Project: This educational opportunity is part of the Northeast Climate Adaptation Science Center (NE CASC) and focuses on advancing science and adaptation planning across the Appalachian Landscape. The project emphasizes synthesizing existing research and developing integrated approaches to landscape connectivity, biodiversity conservation, climate refugia, and nature-based solutions in a region experiencing rapid environmental change. In collaboration with partners across the eastern United States, the initiative seeks to strengthen cross-boundary understanding of ecological resilience and inform adaptation strategies grounded in sound science. Through mentored engagement in this effort, you will collaborate on research synthesis and collaborative scientific dialogue that align with the USGS mission to provide actionable, evidence-based information for natural resource decision-making.

Learning Objectives: Through this mentored research experience, you will gain advanced knowledge of climate adaptation science, landscape ecology, and applied conservation planning within the Appalachian region. You will participate in research activities such as synthesizing scientific literature, engaging in collaborative discussions with regional partners, and/or applying ecological modeling approaches related to connectivity, climate refugia, and forest management practices. This experience will strengthen your skills in interdisciplinary collaboration, science communication, facilitation of scientific workshops, and development of scholarly items such as presentations or manuscripts for educational purposes. Regular interaction with your mentor and research collaborators will enhance your understanding of how scientific research informs adaptation planning, while supporting your professional growth in applied ecological science. 

Mentor: The mentor for this opportunity is Toni Morelli (tmorelli@usgs.gov). If you have questions about the nature of the research please contact the mentor(s). 

Anticipated Appointment Start Date: September 1, 2026. Start date is flexible and will depend on a variety of factors.

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

Level of Participation: The appointment is full time or part time.

Participant Stipend: Stipend rates may vary based on numerous factors, including opportunity, location, education, and experience. If you are interviewed, you can inquire about the exact stipend rate at that time and if selected, your appointment offer will include the monthly stipend rate. The anticipated stipend range is $60,000 - $70,000 annually.

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 USGS. Participants do not become employees of USGS, 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: If you have questions about the application process please email USGS@orau.org  and include the reference code for this opportunity.

Qualifications

The qualified candidate should be currently pursuing or have received a master's or doctoral degree in the one of the relevant fields (biology, ecology, planning, or a relevant field of physical or social sciences). 

Preferred skills:

• Preferred experience or interest in researching at broader scales.
• Excellent written and personal communication skills and demonstrated success in applied science.
• Preference given to applicants who have experience in the Appalachian ecoregion.

Stipend

$60,000.00 – $70,000.00 Yearly

Eligibility Requirements

• Degree: Master's Degree or Doctoral Degree.