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Michigan State University is searching for a social scientist&#160;postdoctoral scholar to be a part of a four-year NSF-funded grant that is developing new ways to reduce the social, economic and environmental costs of hydropower development. We are going into the last two years of the project and the focus is on quantitative data analysis and publications of the social science data collected.Project Abstract:&#160;An estimated 3,700 major dams are currently either planned or under construction worldwide, and they will continue to play significant roles in energy production in the foreseeable future, especially in developing countries. This study’s goal is to develop innovative solutions for hydropower-- not just to produce energy for the national grid, but woven into the surrounding food, water, and institutional systems. The team includes hydro-engineers, hydrogeologists, climatologists, biologists and social scientists working in tandem to offer transformative solutions for hydropower development while ensuring that social and environmental benefits outweigh costs. The project is being conducted in three different basins in the Brazilian Amazon. The social science component is generating a household-level data set of 8 communities, and a total of some 1200 households using randomized sampling, that have been impacted by hydropower development in the Madeira basin in Brazil. In addition, plans are underway to start doing a similar survey in two other basins. The social analysis will focus on impacts on households, differences in compensation and resettlement, and on social/economic changes experienced by households.&#160;The post-doctoral fellow will work on statistical analysis of data collected through a social survey protocol, and may help with the design of a new survey. Strong demonstrated statistical skills are required.&#160; Candidate should be able to work independently but value collaboration with the PIs in the project.The position will start as soon as an appropriate candidate is found. Candidates will be based in East Lansing, Michigan.&#160;Position will initially be for one year, with possible renewal for another year, depending on performance. Salary will be based on commensurate education and experience.Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.&#160;Applications should be submitted electronically to the&#160;Michigan State University Human Resources website,&#160;posting number 596257. Applications should include (a) a cover letter&#160;that addresses the applicant’s interest in the position and how the applicant meets the qualifications specified above, (b) a current CV, and (c) 3 letters of recommendation.&#160;Queries may be directed to Professor Maria Claudia Lopez, Chair of the Search.&#160;mlopez@msu.edu