Guinea Marsh Resilience Planning and Fight the Flood Program Evaluation  

The Institute for Engagement + Negotiation (IEN) is hiring a Student Research Assistant (SRA) to support a portfolio of projects focused on coastal resilience, community engagement, and Tribal partnership development in the Middle Peninsula of Virginia. Projects include the Guinea Marsh Resilience & Innovation for Tidal Wetlands (GRIT) project and the Fight the Flood program evaluation. The SRA will gain hands-on experience designing and implementing stakeholder and Tribal Nation engagement processes, contributing to applied resilience planning and policy research, and conducting research.

Experience + Skills

Required: 
• Strong written and verbal communication skills 
• Ability to work collaboratively 
• Experience with note-taking and synthesis 
• Strong organizational skills 
 
Preferred: 
• Experience supporting workshops or public engagement 
• Interest or experience in Tribal engagement or resilience planning 
• Experience with qualitative research methods 
• Familiarity with Qualtrics, Canva and/or Adobe Suite 

Position dates: Remainder of Fall 2026 semester, with opportunity to continue over winter break and/or into Spring 2027 semester based on performance and fit. 

Time Commitment

10-12 hours per week; additional hours possible during key workshops and events.

We encourage candidates with strong relevant skills and a passion for climate adaptation or community work to apply, even if they don't meet every listed qualification. We value passion and potential as our work is ever evolving and adapting to the needs of our clients and communities. We are committed to assisting our team members with opportunities for development, learning, and growth.

Compensation: This position is open to all UVA students, including federal work-study eligible students; however, graduate students are preferred. Pay Rate: Undergrads: $17 Graduate Students $19-$21.

Please submit a resume and cover letter with your application. Incomplete applications will not be considered. You may direct questions related to this position to Kelly Altizer ( [email protected]).

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Resume and cover letter required.

Education: Current UVA student, graduate student preferred.

Experience: None

Licensure: None

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.