The Smart River Research Associate supports coastal research, community engagement, and sustainable resilience initiatives through the Smart River program. This full-time position is based at the Coastal Collaborator in Hampton and plays a key role in advancing Smart River research, sensor technologies, and stakeholder collaboration. The position works closely with researchers, community partners, and regional organizations to support applied research and outreach initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
Sensor Research and Technology Development:
Collaborate with stakeholders to identify locations for sensor deployment across the Rappahannock River and its tributaries. Support the deployment, maintenance, and evaluation of sensor technologies, and work with Virginia Tech researchers and partners on technology development and applied research projects.
Project Management:
Identify grant opportunities and assist in developing research proposals related to the Smart River Initiative. Coordinate project timelines, milestones, and reporting requirements, including stakeholder updates, IRB documentation, and PEARS reporting. Facilitate written and verbal communication through virtual and in-person meetings.
Education and Outreach:
Deliver presentations, coordinate meetings and educational programming, and represent the VTCC at water research and community engagement events. Develop and publish educational materials related to Smart River technologies and initiatives.
Research Partnerships:
Serve as a liaison among research, technology, and education partners, including Virginia Cooperative Extension, university collaborators, nonprofit organizations, and tribal partners.
This is a restricted, one-year appointment; as a result, Virginia Tech is unable to sponsor applicants for work visas for this vacancy.
