Natural Resources Scientist - Two year fellowship

The Environmental Law & Policy Center (ELPC) is hiring a Natural Resources Scientist with a Ph.D in conservation biology, environmental science, fisheries / wildlife biology, or a closely related field, to advance and develop scientific support for ELPC’s strategic public interest environmental advocacy and litigation at the national, regional, state, and local levels to protect the Great Lakes and the Midwest’s public lands, wildlife, and biodiversity.

This is a two-year fellowship position starting in early 2026, based in our Chicago (preferred) or Washington, D.C. office.   The ELPC Natural Resources Scientist will work with our public interest litigation attorneys, policy advocates, economists, and communications specialists to provide science-based support for litigation and advocacy, educating policymakers, and advancing natural resource protections across the Midwest with a focus on the Great Lakes, public lands, vital natural resources, and wildlife.

The Natural Resources Scientist will assist in developing the scientific and technical bases for ELPC’s advocacy and litigation work to effectuate improved environmental policies and protections for the Great Lakes and Midwest, the addition and better management of public lands, and stronger and smarter regulations and permit requirements by federal and state agencies.

The Natural Resources Scientist will also evaluate methodologies and rationales in rulemakings, permitting decisions, management actions, and the like to identify potential inadequacies and opportunities for improved environmental protections.

This is an extraordinary time in which ELPC’s effective legal and policy advocacy – backed by strong economic analysis, sound science and public engagement – are essential for protecting core environmental values.

LOCATION :

• Chicago (preferred) or Washington, D.C., with a hybrid work environment.

ORGANIZATION :

RESPONSIBILITIES :

QUALIFICATIONS :

Excellence in identifying and evaluating scientific research and effective methodologies in natural-resource fields applicable to ELPC litigation and public advocacy work and in communicating complex technical and scientific matters in a manner the public and regulators will comprehend.  Knowledge of the Midwest / Great Lakes region is strongly preferred, and a desire to apply scientific skills to advance environmental protection and advocacy is a must.

SALARY :

APPLICATION PROCESS :

Three professional references.  Please also be ready to provide (upon request) :

Preference will be given to candidates who apply by  January 6, 2025 .

If you are interested in any of our open positions but are unable to apply online due to a disability, please email  gcronin@elpc.org  for assistance with a reference to the specific job(s) you are interested in.   Powered by JazzHR