Postdoctoral Scholar Opportunity in Disaster Vulnerabilities and Capacities – Oregon State University

Postdoctoral Research Opportunity: Disaster Vulnerabilities & Capacities

Oregon State University, USA

Oregon State University (OSU) invites applications for a Postdoctoral Scholar position in the Disasters in Divided Societies Lab, under the leadership of Dr. Laura E. R. Peters, within the Geography and Geospatial Sciences Program, College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences (CEOAS).

This is a full-time, 12-month position with benefits, beginning as early as February 2, 2026 (start date negotiable).

🔍 Overview

The selected Postdoctoral Scholar will join an interdisciplinary project funded by NASA’s Disasters Program, focusing on disaster vulnerabilities, coping capacities, and resilience in divided societies.

This action-research project involves collaboration with:

• Tufts University
• American Red Cross
• United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)

Together, the team aims to develop integrative decision-support tools that combine NASA Earth Observation data with climate science, geospatial analysis, and social systems analysis.

The scholar will conduct research on vulnerability, coping mechanisms, and disaster resilience, and will contribute to integrating this work into dynamic scenario planning tools.

Applicants with experience in critical disaster studies, vulnerability research, and systems mapping or social network analysis are especially encouraged to apply.

📅 Position Appointment Details

• Duration: 1 year
• Preferred Start Date: February 2, 2026 (negotiable)

🎓 Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Geography, Disaster Studies, Environmental Studies, or a related field (completed or expected by start date).
• Demonstrated experience in disaster research and risk reduction/management.
• Proven academic writing skills with a record of peer-reviewed publications.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary environment.
• Fluency in written and spoken English.

Desirable Qualifications

• Experience working with practitioners, especially in scenario planning.
• Expertise in refugee or displacement settings.
• Knowledge of network and/or systems analysis.

Additional Information

• Open to both domestic and international applicants.
• Application review will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
• Applications received by November 21, 2025, will receive full consideration.

📄 Application Procedure

To apply, send a single PDF including the following materials to:

laura.peters@oregonstate.edu

Subject line: “Disasters Postdoctoral Application”

Application materials (in one PDF):

1. 1–2 page cover letter describing qualifications and specific research interests.
2. Curriculum Vitae (CV).
3. Contact information for three professional references.
4. PDFs of 1–2 peer-reviewed articles authored or co-authored by the applicant.

About Oregon State University (OSU)

Oregon State University is a leading public research institution located in Corvallis, Oregon, with a strong commitment to addressing global challenges through innovation, collaboration, and sustainability.

The College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences (CEOAS) is internationally recognized for its interdisciplinary research and engagement with environmental and social issues impacting communities worldwide.

🔗 Contact Information

Dr. Laura E. R. Peters

Disasters in Divided Societies Lab

Oregon State University

📧 laura.peters@oregonstate.edu

See Details