A two-year position as an Institute for Human-Animal Connection (IHAC) Research Fellow is available to a recent graduate or anticipated 2019 graduate of a Master of Social Work (MSW) program. The overall goal of this position is to provide the Research Fellow with robust training in social science research with a focus on the Human-Animal-Environment Interaction field, in preparation for a career in research.


Position Summary

The IHAC Research Fellow will be an integral member of the IHAC research program at the University of Denver's Graduate School of Social Work, supervised by the Institute's Director of Research with direct reporting to the IHAC Research Associates. An emphasis will be placed on creating academic products including funding proposals, peer-reviewed journal articles, conference abstracts, and other publications to formally communicate research findings and build the Fellow's professional portfolio. After two years, the IHAC Research Fellow will be prepared for doctoral programs and/or research within academic, non-profit, or for-profit environments.

The fellowship will be structured over two years to emphasize the development of strong research skills, strategies, and ethics. The first year will primarily focus on project management skills and strategies within one of IHAC's existing research areas. This will include working closely with an IHAC Research Associate on project implementation, funding proposals, and manuscripts to report study findings; overseeing teams of Graduate Research Assistants; and helping to maintain good working relationships with collaborators at other universities and community partners. In the second year, the IHAC Research Fellow will have expanded responsibilities within the Institute's research agenda.

MSW graduates who plan to pursue a career in social science research or program evaluation, specifically those who are interested in contributing to understanding the impacts of the intersections between people, other animals, and the environment, are encouraged to apply. We are especially interested in considering applications from members of underrepresented groups, first generation college graduates or those who work on topics related to these issues. The IHAC Research Fellow will receive a full-time salary with access to University of Denver benefits. Preference will be given to University of Denver Graduate School of Social Work graduates and to applicants with a history of demonstrated interest in research, project management, and human-animal-environment interactions.

Required Qualifications

• MSW degree or Spring 2019 anticipated MSW degree.
• Prior experience and engagement in research.

Preferred Qualifications

• MSW degree or Spring 2019 anticipated MSW degree from the Graduate School of Social Work at University of Denver.
• Proven ability to maintain confidentiality, prioritize assignments and manage time effectively.
• Demonstrated ability to provide strategy and support to research team leadership.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Demonstrated interest in some aspect of Human-Animal-Environment Interactions.

Work Schedule

• Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
• Evenings and weekends as required.
• Travel required.

Application Deadline

For best consideration, please submit your application materials by 4:00 p.m. (MST) Wednesday, May 1, 2019.

Special Instructions

Candidates must apply online through www.du.edu/jobs to be considered. Only applications submitted online will be accepted. Once within the job description online, please scroll to the bottom of the page to apply.

To receive full consideration for the position, please include the following documents with your application:

1. Academic curriculum vitae (CV)
2. Academic transcript from most recent (or current) program of study
3. 1 letter of reference
4. Written responses to the following questions, not to exceed 2 pages per question (1-inch margins, double-spaced, Times New Roman, size 12 font):
   1. How have your previous academic and professional experiences prepared you for a career in social science research focused on human-animal interactions? The Institute for Human-Animal Connection is committed to maintaining a work environment that encourages knowledge of, respect for and development of skills to effectively engage with individuals from diverse communities. Please describe how your knowledge and/or experience will advance this commitment.
   2. What are your professional goals? How would this IHAC Research Fellowship contribute to your attaining these goals?

The University of Denver and the Institute for Human-Animal Connection are committed to enhancing the diversity of its faculty and staff and encourages applications from women, persons of color, members of the LGBTQ community, people with disabilities and veterans. The University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of age, race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, military/ veteran status or any other status protected by law.

All offers of employment are based upon satisfactory completion of a criminal history background check and formal reference review.