Postdoctoral Scholar Research Associate

The University of Southern California (USC), founded in 1880, is located in the heart of downtown L.A. and is the largest private employer in the City of Los Angeles. As an employee of USC, you will be a part of a world-class research university and a member of the “Trojan Family,” which is comprised of the faculty, students and staff that make the university a great place to work.  

The USC Dana and David Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences is seeking a Postdoctoral Scholar Research Associate in the Equity Research Institute at the University of Southern California.

The USC Equity Research Institute (ERI) is a research unit headed by Professor Manuel Pastor and situated within the USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences. Founded in 2007, ERI provides forward-looking, actionable research to support community-based organizations, funders, and other stakeholders working towards social, racial, economic, and environmental justice. ERI produces data-driven analysis and rigorous research to inform movements and policy; leads convenings and communications that deepen and broaden our reach into key audiences; engages in strategic collaborations that leverage our strengths for broader impact; and models an effective, sustainable, and racially-just research institute. For more information about us and our projects, visit: https://dornsife.usc.edu/ERI.

This postdoctoral position is funded by the Waverley Street Foundation and aims to train a new generation of public-facing and community-engaged scholars in climate equity, environmental justice (EJ), and environmental health.   

We invite all applicants, especially those who come from and/or have experience in EJ-impacted communities. The postdoctoral scholar will participate in community-engaged data science training during which they would design, organize, and conduct advanced quantitative (statistical, spatial, etc.) analyses relevant to climate equity, environmental justice, and/or environmental health; translate complex data and analyses for mainstream audiences and decision-makers; publish both academic articles and popular reports; and co-develop online data visualization tools. The ideal candidate will possess strong communication skills to work effectively within the team and with a diverse range of stakeholders and sectors.

We offer a competitive salary and benefits. The applicant must have completed all requirements for their doctoral degree by August 1, 2026. Graduating doctoral students and pre-tenure professors with a doctorate in a social science or related discipline may apply. Scholars working across disciplines are encouraged to apply. This is a one-year position.

Salary range: The annual base salary range for this position is $70,000 - $84,000. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.

Performs other related duties as assigned or requested. The university reserves the right to add or change duties at any time.

Required Documents and Additional Information:

• Review of applications will commence November 2025, with a decision expected by late-January 2026.
• Applications must include: (1) a cover letter, (2) C.V., (3) a detailed description of the nature of the research undertaken during the fellowship period, (4) a relevant writing and analysis sample up to 30 pages, and (5) contact information for three references. Your materials may be uploaded as separate files or as one file. All documents are required for consideration.
• Job openings are posted for a minimum of (5) five business days. This job may be removed from posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended, so please apply on the same business day if interested.
• USC has excellent benefits, including health benefits for staff and their family with access to the renowned university medical network; eligibility for retirement plans with employer contributions after six months of employment; tuition benefits for staff and their family; free Professional Development classes; central Los Angeles location with easy access to commuter trains, buses and free tram pick up services; discounts to sporting and other campus events.
  

Questions about the application process or requirements should be directed to Dr. Thai V. Le: thaivle@usc.edu

The Post-Doctoral applicant will be mentored by Dr. Manuel. Dr. Pastor is the Director of the Equity Research Institute, a Distinguished Professor of Sociology and American Studies & Ethnicity, and the Turpanjian Chair in Civil Society & Social Change. Dr. Pastor had conducted significant research in the areas of environmental and climate disparities, and is committed to public scholarship that combines rigorous analysis with efforts to uplift the often-invisible work of everyday actors in generating social change.