Led by East Carolina University, the Coastal Studies Institute is a multi-institutional research and educational partnership of the UNC System including North Carolina State University, UNC-Chapel Hill, UNC Wilmington, and Elizabeth City State University. The Coastal Studies Institute, located on the ECU Outer Banks Campus, focuses on integrated coastal research and education programming centered around the needs, issues, and concerns of coastal North Carolinians by bringing together interdisciplinary teams. The specific research expertise of CSI spans a variety of coastal disciplines including coastal dynamics, ecology, biology, economics, environmental geography, social and behavioral sciences, and engineering. CSI uses an interdisciplinary approach and scientific advances to provide effective solutions to complex problems while helping coastal communities, ecosystems, and economies thrive.

Nags Head/ Dare County Community Liason

ECU Water Resources Center

Community liaisons are sought to represent their community in efforts to identify and organize local education and outreach activities in their region  The liaisons will aid ECU faculty, staff, and students in connecting with local residents, organizations, schools, and leaders to highlight community concerns related to the environment and integrate these issues into educational and outreach programing developed by ECU. Community Liaisons should therefore be well established in their respective communities. Key responsibilities involve establishing connections, understanding local priorities, and coordinating activities (including tailored youth programming) to address community needs while fostering collaboration between scientists and residents. The ideal facilitator is deeply committed to their community, culturally aware, embraces people from all backgrounds, practices active listening, and recognizes the transformative potential of science in addressing local challenges.

The expected term of this position will be until December 2025, subject to adequate performance, and may be eligible for renewal of additional terms. Work will largely be able to be completed remotely but the liaisons will need to come to ECU periodically. Liaisons will be required to have their own transportation and reliable internet access. This position is for 10 hours per week at $15 per hour.