Osage Nation
Overview
The Research Scientist will play a critical role in supporting Indigenous food sovereignty programs by leading the development of a world class environmental research program at the Osage Nation Harvest Land facility. The Research Scientist will gather samples and analyze data to assess the movement and bioaccumulation of environmental contaminants, such as PFAS, in the Osage Nation food web. This position requires a deep commitment to supporting community empowerment and cultural preservation. It is ideal for an independent, innovative thinker with a proven track record of leading research projects, publishing in reputable journals, and creating successful transdisciplinary proposals.
Responsibilities
Lead independent research projects: Design, execute, and oversee high-impact environmental research projects from conceptualization through completion. Maintenance, care, and use of the Waters Xevo TQ-S micro mass spectrometer, optimized for measurements of PFAS compounds in complex matrices (plant and animal tissue, soil, and water). Mentor graduate students in collaboration with Texas Tech University faculty, helping develop research aspects for PhD students focused on Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) and chemical analysis of PFAS in Osage food production systems. Develop proposals to secure external funding, foster cross-sector engagement, and build the scientific program at Harvest Land through transdisciplinary collaboration. Publish research: co-author peer-reviewed manuscripts, present findings at conferences (approximately once per year with graduate students), and assist with publication of PFAS analyses in environmental matrices. Establish strong working relationships with community leaders, Elders, and stakeholders, respecting cultural protocols and Indigenous ways of knowing. Collaborate with Indigenous organizations, governmental bodies, and non-profit entities to shape policies that support Indigenous food security, cultural preservation, and land stewardship.
Required Qualifications
PhD in Plant and Soil Science, Environmental Engineering, Ecology, Earth Sciences, Chemistry, Environmental Toxicology or a closely related field. Minimum of 1+ years in experience leading research projects with demonstrated ability to develop externally funded research projects and maintain laboratory equipment. Strong research, analytical, and problem-solving abilities. Proven ability to write, publish, and present research findings to diverse audiences. Laboratory experience relevant to LC-MS and environmental sample characterization. Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with an aptitude for engaging in transdisciplinary research. Must be able to pass a criminal background check Must be able to pass drug/alcohol testing Must have a valid driver’s license – may be required to drive GSA or Nation vehicles
Preferred Qualifications
Established network within environmental science communities and funding agencies. Experience in or willingness to engage in collaborative, cross-disciplinary research teams. Record of securing research funding through grants or institutional support. PFAS analytical experience. Experience working in complex environmental matrices, such as plant and animal tissues, soils, and water. A deep respect for Indigenous cultures, traditions, food sovereignty, and environmental and social principles. Experience working directly with Indigenous communities on food security, land management, or cultural revitalization projects. Experience with proposal development, preferably with success in securing grants or other funding.
Senior/Job Level
Mid-Senior level
Employment Type
Full-time
Job Function
Other
Industries
Government Administration
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The Research Scientist will play a critical role in supporting Indigenous food sovereignty programs by leading the development of a world class environmental research program at the Osage Nation Harvest Land facility. The Research Scientist will gather samples and analyze data to assess the movement and bioaccumulation of environmental contaminants, such as PFAS, in the Osage Nation food web. This position requires a deep commitment to supporting community empowerment and cultural preservation. It is ideal for an independent, innovative thinker with a proven track record of leading research projects, publishing in reputable journals, and creating successful transdisciplinary proposals.
Responsibilities
Lead independent research projects: Design, execute, and oversee high-impact environmental research projects from conceptualization through completion. Maintenance, care, and use of the Waters Xevo TQ-S micro mass spectrometer, optimized for measurements of PFAS compounds in complex matrices (plant and animal tissue, soil, and water). Mentor graduate students in collaboration with Texas Tech University faculty, helping develop research aspects for PhD students focused on Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) and chemical analysis of PFAS in Osage food production systems. Develop proposals to secure external funding, foster cross-sector engagement, and build the scientific program at Harvest Land through transdisciplinary collaboration. Publish research: co-author peer-reviewed manuscripts, present findings at conferences (approximately once per year with graduate students), and assist with publication of PFAS analyses in environmental matrices. Establish strong working relationships with community leaders, Elders, and stakeholders, respecting cultural protocols and Indigenous ways of knowing. Collaborate with Indigenous organizations, governmental bodies, and non-profit entities to shape policies that support Indigenous food security, cultural preservation, and land stewardship.
Required Qualifications
PhD in Plant and Soil Science, Environmental Engineering, Ecology, Earth Sciences, Chemistry, Environmental Toxicology or a closely related field. Minimum of 1+ years in experience leading research projects with demonstrated ability to develop externally funded research projects and maintain laboratory equipment. Strong research, analytical, and problem-solving abilities. Proven ability to write, publish, and present research findings to diverse audiences. Laboratory experience relevant to LC-MS and environmental sample characterization. Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with an aptitude for engaging in transdisciplinary research. Must be able to pass a criminal background check Must be able to pass drug/alcohol testing Must have a valid driver’s license – may be required to drive GSA or Nation vehicles
Preferred Qualifications
Established network within environmental science communities and funding agencies. Experience in or willingness to engage in collaborative, cross-disciplinary research teams. Record of securing research funding through grants or institutional support. PFAS analytical experience. Experience working in complex environmental matrices, such as plant and animal tissues, soils, and water. A deep respect for Indigenous cultures, traditions, food sovereignty, and environmental and social principles. Experience working directly with Indigenous communities on food security, land management, or cultural revitalization projects. Experience with proposal development, preferably with success in securing grants or other funding.
Senior/Job Level
Mid-Senior level
Employment Type
Full-time
Job Function
Other
Industries
Government Administration
Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Osage Nation by 2x Get notified about new Research Scientist jobs in
Pawhuska, OK .
#J-18808-Ljbffr