Job Description

Purpose:

Lincoln university is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Rural Sociologist to join its interdisciplinary research team. This role is crucial for conducting in-depth analyses of rural communities, understanding their unique challenges, and contributing to the development of evidence-based policies that enhance the quality of life in these areas. As a Rural Sociologist, the selected candidate would be able to leverage their expertise to investigate social structures, cultural dynamics, and economic factors impacting rural populations in Missouri. This is a 12-month, non-tenure track, full-benefit eligible position, split between research (75%) and extension/outreach (25%0 appointments.

Essential Job Functions, Duties, & Responsibilities:

• Conduct qualitative and quantitative research to analyze social issues affecting rural communities, including but not limited to migration, agriculture, and community development.
• Collaborate with stakeholders, including local governments, NGOs, and community groups, to gather data and develop actionable insights.
• Design and implement field studies, surveys, and focus groups to collect relevant sociological data.
• Analyze research findings and prepare comprehensive reports that communicate key insights and recommendations to diverse audiences.
• Present research outcomes at conferences, workshops, and community meetings to foster dialogue and promote evidence-based decision-making.
• Stay abreast of current trends and advancements in rural sociology and related fields to inform research methodologies and strategies.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

• List desired knowledge skills & abilities. Try to be as detailed as possible.
• Proficiency in data collection and analysis methods, including surveys and interviews.
• Experience with GIS software to analyze spatial data related to rural communities.
• Strong interpersonal skill with a genuine passion for community engagement and social justice.
• Self-motivated with excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• A collaborative mindset, valuing different perspectives and working effectively in a collaborative environment.

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Sociology, Rural Studies, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated experience in conducting sociological research with a focus on rural populations.
• Strong analytical skills, including proficiency in statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R, Stata, SAS) and qualitative analytics tools.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for diverse audiences. Ability to work independently and in a team-oriented collaborative environments.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in community engagement and participatory research methodologies.
• Familiarity with rural development policies and frameworks.
• Publication record in peer-reviewed journals.

Physical Demands:

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Ability to drive vehicles and must have a valid driver's license.
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs.

This job description is not intended to be a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, or skills required for the job and is subject to review and change at any time, with or without notice, in accordance with the needs of Lincoln University. Since no job description can detail all the duties and responsibilities that may be required from time to time in the performance of a job, duties and responsibilities that may be inherent in a job, reasonably required for its performance, or required due to the changing nature of the job shall also be considered part of the jobholder's responsibility.

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