Research Scientist II EarthRISE Economic Impact​/Economist

Research Scientist II EarthRISE Economic Impact/Economist

Job no: 504399
Department: Earth System Science Center
Work type: Staff Full-time Exempt
Location: Alabama
Categories: Research - Environmental

Purpose of the Position:

The EarthRISE Project Office, within the Lab for Applied Science (LAS) under the Earth System Science Center (ESSC), is seeking a highly motivated environmental economist with applied experience in economic modeling for environmental impact outcomes, to join the Economic Impact Assessment (EIA) team. This Research Scientist position will play a key role in the team by developing models for impact assessment of Earth observation-driven services portfolio and supporting capacity development activities for other programs in Earth Action.

The position will also be responsible for supporting the EIA lead in conducting deep dive assessments of existing services and tools.

A successful candidate will have a strong background in the fields of economic modeling and econometrics, with basic knowledge in remote sensing and GIS techniques. As part of our diverse, highly dynamic group, you will work side-by-side with a team of exceptional scientists with diverse backgrounds to translate Earth observation services end-use into economic outcomes.

Operating within Earth Action, the EarthRISE project office focuses on developing last-mile solutions, improving coordinated action across NASA Earth Science, and fostering workforce development. EarthRISE develops applied Earth observation solutions that support state, local, tribal, territorial, federal, and private-sector decision-makers across key Earth science application areas, including agriculture and food security.

• Develop methodologies for assessing the economic impact of EarthRISE tools and services, integrating both qualitative and quantitative techniques.
• Develop methodologies for assessing economic impact in support of other programs in Earth Action.
• Collect and analyze economic, environmental, and geospatial data.
• Design and implement economic models.
• Collaborate with other organizations, decision-makers, and end-users to understand the adoption and application of EarthRISE services.
• Lead publications in peer-reviewed journals, present at conferences, and prepare project reports for EarthRISE applications.
• Provide training and support to other programs and end-users in conducting EIA of tools and services.
• Contribute to cross-project collaboration, proposal development, and workforce development activities within EarthRISE and NASA Earth Action.

• A Master's degree in economics or other Environmental Sciences with good knowledge of economic modeling; (Bachelor's and experience in a specialized area may be substituted for a degree).
• Minimum of 1 year of verifiable, full-time work experience in these disciplines.
• Strong quantitative and statistical skills; experience with R and/or Python.
• Familiarity with Geospatial technologies and remote sensing applications.
• Excellent communication skills and experience working with diverse groups of people.
• Demonstrated ability to publish research findings and present technical content to non-technical audiences.
• Ability to manage science products and applications in domestic and partner settings and to travel for training and collaborative meetings.
• Cultural awareness and sensitivity pertinent to diverse partner regions and stakeholder groups.

• A PhD in economics or other Environmental Sciences with good knowledge of economic modeling is preferred.
• 2 or more years of experience working in these disciplines is desired.
• Experience working with NASA and/or other federal, state, local, tribal, or private sector organizations is desired.
• Experience in assessing the impact of geospatial tools or services is preferred.
  
  Familiarity with EarthRISE, NASA Earth Action, or similar programs in EO and geospatial solutions is preferred. Published Salary (if available):

  $67,151-$89,611

  Advertised: Sep 11 2026 Central Daylight Time
  Applications close:

  The University of Alabama in Huntsville is an equal opportunity employer (EOE), including an EOE of protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.