Position Title: Research Faculty- TEK/Indigenous Research Methods- Closing December 20th, 2024 at 5:00 p.m.

Department: Intertribal Research & Resource Center (IRRC)

Reports Directly to: Center Director (IRRC)

Status: Exempt; Full-time

Salary: $64,000

Summary of Duties:

  • The IRRC seeks a Research Faculty member with a focus on Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) and/or Indigenous Research Methodologies (IRM) related to natural resource management (e.g. climate resilience, water, land, food, environmental justice, land restoration, or renewable energy) with Indigenous communities.
  • Conducts research that is beneficial and relevant to tribal communities under the broad themes of the IRRC relating to environmental health and sustainability.
  • Works collaboratively with tribal nation partners to co-design and develop projects that build upon Traditional Ecological Knowledge and/or use Indigenous Research Methodologies.
  • Establishes a record of publication in relevant and peer-reviewed scientific journals.
  • Models exemplary behavior through ethical, responsible, and safe practices, honoring tribal sovereignty in research actions and reciprocity.
  • Writes competitive proposals and administers grants to sustain research activities through an externally funded research program, with substantial support and mentoring,
  • Enhances existing research infrastructure and expands the IRRC’s efforts to develop culturally congruent, sustainable research protocols, outcomes, and community engagement.
  • Shares research results with tribal communities through working with IRRC’s Community STEM Engagement Coordinator to co-develop and deliver innovative engagement modules and programs for various communities.
  • Engages undergraduate researchers through active mentoring programs during the academic year and/or summer.
  • Provides and participates in short trainings and seminars on specialty topics.
  • Teaches a maximum of one course (3 credits) per academic semester (fall/spring).
  • Complies with college and IRRC policies, plans, and procedures.
  • Performs other related work delegated or required to accomplish the objectives of the college and the IRRC.

Supervisory Responsibilities: None.

Working Conditions:

  • General office conditions. Normal working hours are from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm with one hour for a lunch break. Rarely may need to work additional hours for special events, meeting/presentations or infrequent travel as needed.

Physical Demands: 

  • Regularly be able to remain in a sitting position.
  • Occasionally move about inside an office and/or classroom.
  • Operate a computer and other office/classroom equipment.
  • Occasionally move, transport, or position up to 25 pounds.
  • Communicate clearly and effectively.
  • Variable demands as required by chosen individual research topics.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • A PhD in a STEM field. ABD candidates are welcome to apply and may be considered by the hiring official.
  • Two-years of research experience, broadly relevant to the study of environmental and natural resources with use of Traditional Ecological Knowledge/Indigenous Research Methodologies.
  • Demonstrated experience in conducting community-based, reciprocal research with Indigenous partners.
  • Strong record of working effectively with and on behalf of Indigenous partners.
  • Identified potential to build a strong record of publication in peer-reviewed journals.
  • Demonstrated experience working with undergraduate research students, undergraduate teaching experience, and experience engaging with persons from diverse backgrounds.
  • Must demonstrate excellent interpersonal team building and decision-making skills.
  • Effective verbal and listening communication skills, strong writing skills, organizational skills, and time management.
  • Ability to organize work and be effective under stress to meet deadlines.

Knowledge & Skills:

  • Knowledge of Indigenous knowledge systems and Indigenous Research Methodologies.
  • Experience in creating synergy between Indigenous and western scientific ways of knowing.
  • Potential for establishing an engaging and sustainable research program.
  • Knowledge of best practices for partnering and upholding data sovereignty.
  • Strong written and oral communication skills.
  • Knowledge of relevant Indigenous resource management practices is desirable.
  • Knowledge of Microsoft Office suite and Google Docs (preferred).
  • Able to work effectively with faculty, staff, agency personnel, and administrators.
  • Must be a self-starter, able to work independently without direct supervision, be punctual, and be an effective team member.
  • Must be willing to learn and grow with the team.
  • Able to establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with others.

Required Documents:

  • UTTC Application
  • Cover Letter
  • Resume
  • Unofficial Copies of College Transcripts
  • Valid Driver’s License (must submit a copy)

Opening Date: November 20th, 2024

Closing Date: December 20, 2024 11:00 pm

Additional Information: 

United Tribes Technical College (UTTC) does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religious preference, age, handicap, marital status, political preference, or membership or non-membership in an employee organization, except as allowed by the Indian preference provision of the civil rights act of 1964, as amended.

A conviction record will not necessarily be a bar from employment. This information will only be used for job-related purposes and only to the extent permitted by applicable law. Federal laws require that employers hire only individuals who are authorized to be lawfully employed in the United States. In compliance with such laws, UTTC will verify the status of every individual offered employment with UTTC. UTTC will not sponsor work-related visas.

Applicants are responsible for providing proof of enrollment in a federally recognized tribe if Indian preference is claimed. Applicants are responsible for providing a copy of his/her United States Government Form DD214 or his/her honorable discharge certificate from any branch of the military service if veteran’s preference is claimed. Failure to provide proof will result in loss of Indian or veteran preference in employment.

Application and required documents can be completed and submitted online at https://uttc.edu/careers/, via email to jckillsplenty@uttc.edu, or mail to Human Resources Department, United Tribes Technical College, 3315 University Drive, Bismarck, ND 58504. Applications and Required Documents received after the closing date and time of a job posting will NOT be considered.

Upon selection, the applicant is responsible for obtaining and completing a Transcript Request Form from the last institution attended. The applicant will submit the completed form to the Human Resources Department. The Human Resources Department will cover any fees required to obtain official transcripts.