Science Translation and Communication Fellowship

USGS Office/Lab and Location: A research opportunity is currently available with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), USGS Climate Adaptation Science Center (CASC), regional South Central CASC (SC CASC) located in Fort Collins, Colorado. The selected candidate can report remotely however, preference will be given to candidates located in, or willing to relocate to Fort Collins, Colorado. 

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: The objective of this ORISE fellowship is to enhance the effectiveness of communication and outreach initiatives at the South Central Climate Adaptation Science Center (SC CASC). The project will identify, synthesize, and apply evidence-based best practices in science communication, outreach, and program evaluation to advance the South Central CASC’s mission.

Under the guidance of a mentor, specific activities include, but are not limited to:

• Communications Research and Synthesis: Investigate and synthesize current best practices in science communication, translation, and outreach that are particularly relevant to climate adaptation science and the specific needs of the South Central CASC.
• Needs Assessment and Strategic Alignment: Collaborate closely with South Central CASC staff to identify opportunities, priorities, and gaps in existing science communication and outreach efforts.
• Application of Best Practices: Help staff in incorporating evidence-based strategies into CASC projects to enhance science communication, dissemination, and stakeholder engagement. Design creative and tailored communications products such as one-pagers, visualizations, and infographics for SC CASC science users.
• Evaluation Development and Implementation: Research, recommend, and develop practical guidance on evaluation methods and metrics to assess the effectiveness of science communication and translation initiatives. Support the implementation and analysis of these evaluation frameworks.
• Leadership in Communication and Translation Planning: Coordinate planning processes related to communication and outreach, regularly sharing progress and outcomes to the Science Advisory Committee and University communications lead, as well as contributing to the development of the Southern Plains Climate Science Webinar Series.
• Development of Communication Products: Create effective science communication materials tailored to reach and engage priority audiences, ensuring that outputs are accessible, actionable, and aligned with stakeholder needs.

Learning Objectives: Participant will learn to investigate and synthesize best practices in science communication, especially in the context of climate adaptation science and the needs of South Central CASC. They will gain experience in conducting needs assessments, aligning outreach strategies, and applying evidence-based communication techniques to enhance project dissemination and stakeholder engagement. Skills developed will include designing tailored communication products such as infographics and one-pagers, developing and implementing evaluation methods for communication effectiveness, coordinating outreach plans, and creating accessible materials for diverse audiences.

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

Anticipated Appointment Start Date: October 13, 2025. 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.

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 $72,000 – $82,000 annually.

Citizenship Requirements: This opportunity is available to U.S. citizens only.

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 have received a master’s degree in one of the relevant fields. Degree must have been received within the past five years.

Preferred skills:

• Experience with climate science communication focused on natural resource audiences, including interest and demonstrated experience in incorporating emerging methods for visualizations and science translation to general audiences.
• Experience being accountable to external customers, public officials, and diverse stakeholders.
• Attention to detail and good organizational skills