Research Professional 7 - Social Science Multidisciplinary

This is a 75% time, temporary appointment (approximately 5 months). Located in the Department of Applied Economics, Twin Cities Campus, University of Minnesota. Start date is negotiable but no later then 8/1/26.

Please note, this position is not eligible for H-1B or Green Card sponsorship. This position does not offer a STEM OPT training program

Responsibilities
This position includes responsibilities for research and related outreach in environmental economics, specializing in applied econometrics, causal inference, cost-benefit analysis, and project evaluation. The successful candidate will:

• Develop, design, and conduct nationally or internationally recognized research in environmental economics and policy analysis, with a primary focus on water resource issues. Research topics may include but are not limited to: evaluation of programs to ensure safe drinking water, valuation of ecosystem services, effectiveness of agricultural conservation practices, and technology adoption. Research may involve data collection via surveys as well as merging complex secondary datasets.
• Publish research results in peer-reviewed disciplinary and interdisciplinary scientific journals.
• Develop reports, summaries, presentations, and other materials to disseminate research findings to relevant non-academic audiences.
• Lead, co-lead, or collaborate on multi-investigator projects involving researchers in the Department of Applied Economics or other experts across the College of Food, Agricultural, and Natural Resource Sciences and the broader University.
• Secure extramural funding from federal sources (e.g., USDA-NIFA, NSF, EPA, USGS), state sources (e.g., LCCMR, state agencies) and other sources (e.g. nonprofit organizations).
• Contribute to efforts fostering inclusive excellence in the Department, College, University, and profession at large.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in agricultural economics, applied economics, economics, or related discipline with substantial research and publication record.
• Evidence of publishing research in peer-reviewed field and interdisciplinary journals
• Evidence of securing extramural funding from governmental, non-governmental, or private sector organizations.
• Experience leading and collaborating in multi-investigator projects.
• Experience with statistical and model development software including Stata, R, Python, and MATLAB.

Desired Qualifications

• At least ten years of experience conducting research in environmental economics
• Rigorous training in applied microeconomic theory with a specialization in environmental economics.
• Rigorous training in applied econometrics focusing on applied microeconomics.
• Potential for success working with multi-disciplinary research and Extension teams.
• Evidence of working effectively with culturally diverse audiences.
• Evidence of commitment to the University's goal of creating a positive and inclusive campus climate.
• Exemplary communication skills for professional and non-professional audiences.
• Commitment to working collaboratively with faculty and other researchers.

The Department of Applied Economics (APEC) supports the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS) and the University of Minnesota's land-grant mission through its teaching, research, and extension programs. APEC's teaching programs include Bachelor of Science degrees in Applied Economics and Agricultural & Food Business Management, and Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees in Applied Economics. Its research and extension focus are broadly defined as Food Systems; Development, Growth, & Trade; Environmental & Resource Economics; and Public Sector Economics. APEC is home to several centers that strengthen its academic programs and provide opportunities for students and faculty in research, extension, outreach, and policy. Please visit APEC's website at apec.umn.edu for further information.

CFANS's vision is to advance Minnesota as a global leader in food, agriculture, and natural resources through extraordinary education, science-based solutions, and dynamic public engagement that nourishes people and enhances the environment in which we live. CFANS is home to 12 academic departments, including APEC, with faculty that frequently collaborate to fulfill this vision.

The University of Minnesota-Twin Cities is in a diverse metropolitan area that is the home to the state capital as well as a large agribusiness and food sector. The campus is at the center of a diverse agricultural production region and supported by ten research and outreach centers located throughout the state. This proximity offers unique opportunities for stakeholder engagement to identify and address contemporary economic, business, and policy issues related to agriculture, food, environment, and natural resources.

Pay Range: $112,000 to $122,000 annually; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 75% Appointment

Position Type: Faculty and P&A Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the
time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures
that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while
maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and
equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates
will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

Review of applications will begin on 7/23/26 . Applications received after this date may not receive full consideration.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.