Indigenous Cultural Landscape (ICL) Research Fellow

Description

The ICL Research Fellow will support the identification, representation, and interpretation of the Monacan Indigenous Cultural Landscape (ICL) and its intersections with Shenandoah National Park. This term-based position involves historical research, community engagement, data collection, and GIS mapping. The Fellow will collaborate with the Monacan Indian Nation, Shenandoah National Park Trust (SNPT), and the National Park Service (NPS). This position will be supervised by Shenandoah National Park’s Cultural Resources Manager.

Job Duties

Research & Data Collection:

– Conduct archival and field-based research using historical records, maps, and cultural documents.

– Gather Indigenous knowledge and oral histories through direct engagement with the Monacan Indian Nation.

– Participate in driving tours and stakeholder meetings with land managers, planners, and conservation organizations.

– Collect and synthesize environmental, cultural, and historical data relevant to the Monacan ICL.

– When applicable, compile information on any significant findings regarding Indigenous peoples (outside of the Monacan Indian Nation) relationship to Shenandoah.

Data Management & Analysis:

– Build and maintain a Geographic Information System (GIS)-based database.

– Map collected data and conduct spatial analyses of relevant landscape features.

– Compare findings with previously mapped ICLs and related studies.

Stakeholder Engagement & Communication:

– Coordinate and facilitate meetings with tribal representatives, government officials, and community organizations.

– Raise awareness about the ICL concept and promote cultural preservation.

Reporting & Documentation:

– Draft and finalize a comprehensive project report with maps, data summaries, and historical narratives.

– Ensure the report is reviewed and approved by the Monacan Indian Nation, NPS, and SNPT.

– Archive all project data and transfer records to relevant organizations.

Skills Required

Required :

– Master’s degree or equivalent experience in Indigenous Studies, Cultural Anthropology, Environmental Science, Geography, or a related field.

– Experience conducting field-based research and community engagement.

– Proficiency with GIS mapping and spatial analysis tools.

– Strong organizational, writing, and project management skills.

– Ability to collaborate across diverse cultural contexts with sensitivity and respect.

Preferred:

– Knowledge of Indigenous Cultural Landscape methodologies.

– Experience working with Indigenous communities and cultural preservation projects.

– Familiarity with Shenandoah National Park and its historical landscape.

Work Schedule

Full-time, 12-month Term (potential for extension based on project progress and funding).
Flexible remote work with field visits to Shenandoah National Park and the surrounding region.

Additional Info

How to Apply:
Submit a resume, cover letter detailing your interest in the role, and a sample of relevant written or GIS project work by February 24, 2025, to Jillian Lum at jlum@snptrust.org. Email subject for submitting an application: ICL Research Fellow.

Visit Website: https://www.snptrust.org/