Research Assistant - Chapel Hill, United States - University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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    Description

    A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities.

    Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.


    One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.


    University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks that include numerous retail and restaurant discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates for performing arts events.

    Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit


    The UNC Institute for the Environment (IE) has a multifaceted mission: (1) To strengthen environmental research capacity across UNC by supporting a multi-disciplinary community of scholars that enhances collaboration, increases sharing of knowledge, and identifies solutions to the world's critical environmental problems.

    (2) To work in partnership across UNC and with external partners to coordinate and deliver 21st century educational programs that provide students with the experience and skills to thrive in a growing global economy.

    (3) To put new environmental knowledge into action by engaging and serving communities, here in North Carolina and around the world.

    (4) To fuel and harness the university's sustainability activities through the Sustainable Carolina Initiative

    Position Summary


    This position may be eligible for a hybrid work arrangement that may include a partially remote work location, consistent with System Office policy.

    UNC Chapel Hill employees are generally required to reside within a reasonable commuting distance of their assigned duty station.


    The Center for Public Engagement with Science (CPES) in the UNC Institute for the Environment (UNC-IE) seeks an environmental health research assistant to begin in May 2023.

    The CPES partners with UNC faculty/staff/students and non-academic partners to translate environmental science research results into action in North Carolina (NC) communities.

    This position will have a focus on environmental health research translation and community engagement activities.

    The research assistant will be expected to conduct online and library research on environmental health and public health topics, including (but not limited to) health effects of early life exposure to toxic metals and phthalates and other environmental health hazards found in homes and child care centers.

    Additional tasks will include assisting in developing and pilot testing educational materials for public health professionals and community audiences.

    The research assistant will assist with logistics for meetings, trainings and other programming with CPES stakeholders who represent public health agencies and community-based organizations.

    The position will also assist in research and logistics for students enrolled in summer STEM education activities.

    Duties will include assisting in the development of programming, leading selected activities, and scheduling meetings between students, faculty and CPES stakeholders.

    Minimum Education and Experience Requirements

    Demonstrated possession of the competencies necessary to perform the work.

    Required Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience


    • Experience (including as a volunteer) working on environmental science or environmental/public health issues
    • Interest in community engagement and public service
    • Interest in NC's environmental issues
    • Initiative and reliability
    • Ability to work independently
    Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience


    • Ability to multi-task
    Special Physical/Mental Requirements Campus Security Authority Responsibilities

    Not Applicable.

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