Research Assistant/ Coordinator

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.

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

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 Data-Driven EnviroLab ( DDL) is an interdisciplinary and international research initiative based at UNC's Institute for the Environment that is redefining how data is used to tackle the world's most pressing environmental challenges. Analyzing the global environment at multiple geographical and jurisdictional levels - from cities, countries, and regions to local communities and corporations - we turn complex, large-scale, and often messy datasets into actionable insights that shape policy, drive accountability, and create real-world impact. We operate with a commitment to evidence-based, equitable solutions, building connections across disciplines, sectors, and geographies while giving special attention to underrepresented communities and data-scarce regions in the Global South. DDL was founded and is led by Associate Professor Angel Hsu.

The Data-Driven EnviroLab ( DDL) is seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant / Project Coordinator to support a range of activities spanning research, communications, and project management. This role will report directly to Professor Angel Hsu and play a central part in advancing DDL's work at the intersection of data science, environmental policy, and public outreach. The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment and bring strong organizational, writing, and research skills to support lab operations and scientific publications.

The Research Assistant/Project Coordinator will manage pre and post-award support, liaising with internal and external counterparts to ensure documentation and paperwork supporting grant applications and budgets are timely and complete; post-award support to ensure grants are properly managed. The position will assist with scheduling, contracting paperwork, email correspondence, event and meeting management, including documenting meetings, conference calls, and maintaining lab and project organization using Google Drive, GitHub, Teamgantt, and Slack. The Research Assistant/Project Coordinator will conduct desk research, data analysis, to support research projects and scientific publications.

The successful candidate is proactive and able to multi-task with goals of advancing research, communication and coordination skills. The position is initially for 1 year with the possibility of extension pending funding and performance

Relevant post-Baccalaureate degree required (or foreign degree equivalent); for candidates demonstrating comparable independent research productivity, will accept a relevant Bachelor's degree (or foreign degree equivalent) and 3 or more years of relevant experience in substitution. May require terminal degree and licensure.

- Knowledge and experience in environmental studies, public policy, data science, political science
- Strong organizational and project management skills; attention to detail
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills
- Superior research and writing ability
- Able to multi-task and handle multiple projects
- Proactive, self-directed worker
- Independent judgment and creativity.
- Able to work in a diverse and multi-disciplinary team.
- Time management, organization, attention to detail, and general professionalism are essential.
- Software: Microsoft Office Suite is required. Experience with R, Adobe Creative Suite, Word Press or other content management systems, and web design software is a plus.
- Demonstrated potential for professional and academic leadership.

- An excitement and willingness to further improve all of these skills.

Not Applicable.

If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the Office of Human Resources at (919) 843-2300 or send an email to employment@unc.edu
Please note: The Office of Human Resources will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.

The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.