Research Associate, Wildfire - UBC Vancouver

AI Summary

UBC in Vancouver, BC, is seeking a Research Associate to lead critical research into the costs associated with wildfire across Canada. This role involves comprehensive literature reviews, developing robust research plans, and preparing national reports on wildfire impacts. Top requirements include a graduate degree and post-graduate research experience specifically in wildfire, including risk mitigation and fire suppression. Candidates should also possess expertise in engaging with diverse stakeholders and a strong understanding of social science methods.

About the Opportunity

The University of British Columbia, a leading Canadian institution, is actively seeking a dedicated Research Associate to join the Department of Forest Resources Management. This pivotal research role, based at the UBC Vancouver Campus, is designed to significantly advance our understanding of the economic and social costs associated with wildfire throughout Canada. The successful associate will undertake extensive research, including a thorough literature review to identify existing data and critical gaps in current knowledge regarding wildfire expenses. Responsibilities also include developing a comprehensive research plan, coordinating various research approaches, and actively seeking opportunities for additional funding to support ongoing investigations into wildfire. This position is instrumental in preparing a national report on the cost of wildfire, alongside contributing to associated peer-reviewed articles, thereby shaping national policy and public understanding.

Key Responsibilities and Qualifications

As a Research Associate, your primary duties will include undertaking in-depth research to quantify the costs associated with wildfire, with a specific focus on the Canadian context. This will involve identifying existing datasets, current researchers, and critical knowledge gaps. You will be responsible for developing a robust research plan to address these identified gaps, including the coordination of diverse research approaches and the exploration of funding opportunities. A key output of this role will be the preparation of findings for a national report on the cost of wildfire, along with any associated peer-reviewed articles. Furthermore, you will develop and support communication strategies around the research and its final report. Candidates must possess a graduate degree and substantial post-graduate research experience in fields related to wildfire, including risk mitigation and fire suppression. Demonstrated expertise in working on wildfire-related topics with various sectors and stakeholders, particularly rural communities, is essential. The ability to publish research findings and a strong knowledge of social science methods and techniques are also required. Other qualifications include excellent oral communication skills, the capacity to thrive within a dynamic research team, and the ability to manage a project with defined milestones and a clear job end date of August 31, 2028, with potential for extension.