Postdoctoral Researcher

Position Overview

The University of Kansas (KU) invites applications for a one-year Postdoctoral Research Fellow position to support an interdisciplinary project focused on evaluating strategies designed to improve compliance with environmental protocols among heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) technicians. This project is part of the larger multi‑institutional Environmentally Applied Refrigerant Technology Hub Engineering Research Center funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and involves collaboration with researchers at the University of South Dakota, Lehigh University, University of Notre Dame, University of Maryland, and the University of Hawaii, as well as several technical training schools.

The research explores behavior‑shaping solutions for HVAC technicians working for service companies to reduce the release of high‑global‑warming‑potential refrigerants. Using a combination of qualitative interviews, online experiments, field experiments, and theoretical modeling, the project aims to assess the effectiveness of strategies such as deposit/refund schemes, professional norms, and third‑party verification.

The Postdoctoral Researcher will support the following activities:

• 20% – Manage and statistically analyze the online experimental data
• 20% – Develop and implement field experiments
• 15% – Manage and statistically analyze the field experimental data
• 15% – Design and conduct interviews with HVAC technicians
• 10% – Analyze the qualitative data generated by these interviews
• 10% – Develop and implement online psychological experiments
• 10% – Establish and maintain relationships with partner companies

The position is expected to start between May 27, 2026, and August 1, 2026, depending on the selected candidate’s availability. Additional funds may allow a spring‑semester start if feasible.

• A PhD in economics, psychology, or another strongly related social science discipline
• Demonstrated experience with at least one of the following research activities: interviews, online experiments, or field experiments
• Strong quantitative data management and analysis skills
• Interest in environmentally related compliance behavior and empirical social‑scientific analysis
• Strong writing and communication skills
• Proven ability to work independently

• Previous experience researching environmental compliance
• Strong econometric skills
• Working knowledge of programming in Stata, SAS, or R

A complete application package must include a cover letter, a CV, a list of two academic references, and a representative publication (or working paper) attached as a PDF to an email sent to bleep bloop.edu.

Application review begins on Monday, February 2, 2026, and continues until a qualified candidate is selected. Please apply prior to that date.

Jessica Tami
jtami

$64,000