Post Doctoral Fellow in Data Center and Energy Infrastructure Buildout

Description

The specific area of research in which the trainee is mentored is determined by the department and laboratory of the Postdoc. Designs and evaluates experiments. Develops new ideas that promote current research. Prepares and publishes scientific manuscripts under the direction of the Principal Investigator. May be responsible for operation of specific equipment. May teach techniques to others, train, and supervise research staff.

Additional Information and Description about the Job

The Climate Transformations Lab (ClimTransform Lab), led by Dr. Jola Ajibade, invites applications for a Postdoctoral Fellow to join an interdisciplinary research team at Emory University. This position is part of a groundbreaking project funded by the Sloan Foundation, examining the multi-dimensional impacts of data centers and energy infrastructure build-out in the US South (Georgia, Virginia, and Tennessee).

• Conduct a systematic meta-analysis of data center and energy impacts.
• Lead GIS mapping of data center and expanded energy infrastructure locations.
• analyze and visualize data using qualitative and quantitative tools (e.g., R, Python, MAXQDA).
• Create and maintain project website.
• Design and administer surveys targeting residents, energy practitioners, and labor experts.
• Facilitate interviews and focus group discussions with energy scholars, labor unions, and policymakers.
• Analyze and visualize data using qualitative and quantitative tools (e.g., R, Python, MAXQDA).
• Co-author peer-reviewed articles and contribute to developing the data center-EJ burden maps
• Disseminate findings through conferences, policy briefs, and media engagement.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary research of faculty and students.

Qualifications

• A Ph.D. in Geography, Environmental Sciences, Economics, Anthropology, Sociology, Political Ecology, or a related field by the start date.
• Demonstrated expertise in data center studies, energy social sciences, U.S. utility systems, sustainability science, and/ or environmental justice research.
• Proficiency in GIS mapping and data analytics.
• Strong background in mixed quantitative and qualitative methods, including statistical analysis, econometrics, interviews, and policy analysis.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with a strong publication record.
• Experience working with diverse stakeholders, especially marginalized communities, is highly desirable.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary environment.

About The Climate Transformations Lab

The Climate Transformations Lab examines climate and renewable energy transitions through the lens of justice and equity. We develop interdisciplinary, collaborative research that produces actionable policies and solutions for advancing energy justice and sustainability.

Position Details

• Application deadline: May 30
• Job Start Date: October 1, 2026
• Location: Atlanta, GA (Emory University campus)
• Term: 1-year full-time (renewable for a second year based on performance)
• Salary: $60,000

Contact Information

To apply, interested candidates should submit: A cover letter describing their interests and relevant experience, including work on data centers in the U.S, energy systems, labor analysis, environmental justice analysis, GIS mapping, and participatory research with marginalized communities. Current CV A writing sample (preferably a peer-reviewed publication). Contact details for three professional references.