Job description
Mountain Studies Institute (MSI) is seeking a motivated and dedicated researcher to develop applied research initiatives and restoration projects in alignment with MSI’s mission, and community and partner needs. MSI is seeking to build a preeminent applied science team focused on ecological restoration and the impact of upstream restoration on watershed resiliency across the Southwest US. The research will focus on watershed restoration, including the nexus between water resources and forest management, that benefits proximate and downstream habitat and communities. The research should help bridge the gap between science and management with a focus in understanding how forest, stream, and wetland restoration impacts hydrologic function of systems.
The expectation is that this individual will be able to independently:
● Conceptualize new research initiatives
● Implement and lead all research components including experimental design, field campaigns, data analysis, and writing
● Interpret research results through publication and oral presentations
● Represent MSI in meetings with the public, partners, and at scientific conferences
● Present research findings and pitch new initiatives to potential funders
● Explore medium to large funding opportunities to leverage this position into the future beyond the first year
This position will immediately contribute to existing MSI research initiatives including:
● Snowtography
● Processed Based Restoration
● Stream and wetland Restoration
● Fen Restoration
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
● Education: PhD in a relevant field, including Hydrology, Ecology, Biology, Environmental Science, Geography, Geology, Chemistry, Earth Sciences, Snow Science, etc.
● >5 years in a similar or related field directly relevant to ecohydrology research
● Experience with tribal, state, and federal government agencies (Southern Ute Tribe, Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, Navajo Nation, EPA, BLM, USFS, CDPHE, DRMS, USACE)
● Strong track record of relevant publishing in peer-reviewed journals, preference for five or more publications
● Expertise in geographic information systems and remote sensing (can include ESRI ArcGIS Pro, Survey 123, QGIS, Python, R, Google Earth Engine) and spatial data management
● Expertise in database management (R, Access, MatLab)
● Expertise with statistical analysis and associated software packages (R, Python, JMP, SAS, etc.)
DESIRED EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS
● Experience leading independent research
● Experience planning and executing complex projects, including budgeting, contract deliverables, and reporting
● Experience building rapport with partners and navigating stakeholder relationships collaboratively
● Grant writing experience and track record of success
● Experience in snow science, including snow surveys and snow water equivalent
● Experienced with wetland and stream restoration concepts, principles, and design
● Experience with multi-mode backcountry travel in all seasons. Demonstrated ability to make situational decisions while in a field setting based on personal/group/team safety: terrain, weather, conditions, etc.
● Local knowledge of the San Juan Mountains and the Four Corners region
How to apply
To apply, send a cover letter and resume including publication references and major research presentations. References will be requested for short-listed applicants. Please submit as one PDF document with the title “LastName_Researcher” to: apply@mountainstudies.org. Applications will be accepted March 4, 2026 – March 21, 2026.
