Application Instructions: All application materials received by November 14, 2025, will be given full consideration. To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. The following materials must be attached when applying:
1) Resume
2) Cover Letter

You will be presented with the opportunity to attach multiple documents when completing the application. Before submitting your online job application, ensure that ALL required materials listed above have been uploaded. Once your job application has been submitted, you cannot make changes. If you have questions regarding this application process, please email careers-support@uni.edu or call 319-273-2422.

Primary Function: Assists with the direction and implementation of research projects and other programmatic activities at the Arctic, Remote and Cold Territories Interdisciplinary Center (ARCTICenter) with a focus on community sustainability, adaptation and development (e.g., fisheries, tourism, Indigenous economies, subsistence, etc.) in the Arctic (with the focus on Alaska); pursues individual research in social and sustainability sciences and/or disciplinary scholarship; conducts applied and methodological research (quantitative, qualitative or mixed-methods) in a highly collaborative setting; collaborates with researchers from other institutions and participates in National Science Foundation (NSF) grant activities; receives training and assists with report and proposal writing; attends ARCTICenter meetings and participates in other departmental activities as appropriate; and trains and supervises graduate and undergraduate-level students.

Qualifications: Doctoral or equivalent degree in geography, political science, planning, economics, sociology, demography, anthropology, public policy, indigenous studies or related field required. ABD and fall 2025 graduates will be considered. Demonstrated knowledge of Arctic regions or other remote and peripheral areas; and experience with quantitative and/or qualitative methods also required. Experience with Indigenous communities preferred. Student experience will be considered.

This position is primarily based in Iowa; however, remote work from Alaska may be considered due to the focus of the position. Employees approved for remote work must comply with the requirements of our remote work policy and agreement.

The ARCTICenter is a hub for Arctic social and sustainability sciences research funded by various U.S. and international organizations. The position is expected to continue for 24 months pending availability of funds.

UNI at a Glance

Founded: 1876

Location: Cedar Falls, IA

Enrollment: More than 9,000 students

School colors: Purple & Gold

As one of Iowa’s three public universities, the University of Northern Iowa is known for designing robust and practical learning experiences — the kind that gives our students the career edge they need in fields like education and business. But most importantly, we're passionate about our students. With over 90 degree programs and a community of supportive faculty, we’re here to help you chase your dreams. With a vibrant campus community and endless opportunities to explore, we promise to keep things interesting along the way.

About the University of Northern Iowa

The University of Northern Iowa provides a high-quality and diverse educational experience, purposefully guiding students to find and develop their strengths and prepare them for success after college. Building on its historic excellence in teacher education, the university has developed outstanding programs in business, natural sciences, humanities and fine arts, and social and behavioral sciences with advanced degrees available in many programs.

UNI is nestled in the middle of the vibrant Cedar Valley, an area that offers the perfect combination of history, culture and technology, and a community of people who treat each other like family. Whether it’s our hospitality or one-of-a-kind shops, attractions and events, you’ll love visiting Cedar Falls with your family and friends. You won’t just enjoy visiting the Cedar Valley, but you’ll love living here, too.

A Great Place to Live

Where else can you find the perfect combination of history, culture, technology and a community of people who will treat you like family? 

UNI is located in picturesque Cedar Falls, Iowa, a riverfront town with many recreational, cultural and entertainment opportunities. Downtown Cedar Falls was previously named one of the "30 Most Charming College Town Main Streets" by Best Value Schools. The metro community of Cedar Falls/Waterloo has a combined population of 170,000 and offers a pleasant residential setting with a strong and growing industrial base. Cedar Falls is a friendly, affordable community located about 300 miles from Minneapolis, St. Louis, Kansas City and Chicago. 

A Great Place to Work

We believe every position is vital to the university’s success; from maintaining campus facilities and grounds to leading a classroom, every employee makes a difference.

With an enrollment of more than 9,000 students, faculty and staff enjoy a similar environment as our students - a large university environment with a small college atmosphere - where they can stand out and excel. A few of the recurring recognitions we take pride in include the U.S. News & World Report’s “Best Midwest Universities” and recognition as a Best Place for Working Parents employer. 

The American Association for State Colleges and Universities recognized UNI with two national awards: The Excellence and Innovation Award for UNI’s Course Embedded Peer Mentor Program and the Regional and Economic Development Award for UNI’s Regional Entrepreneurship Project that has positively impacted 17 Iowa counties in five economically challenged regions. The work done on campus has a positive impact not only on our local community, but across the state and beyond.