Hitz Fellow, Fossil Fuel-Al Nexus

• Conduct interdisciplinary research on the energy, emissions, and equity impacts of AI-driven data center expansion, using mixed methods including data analysis, corporate document review, and policy mapping.
• Author reports, factsheets, and peer-reviewed publications on the AI–fossil fuel nexus, and communicate findings to policymakers, communities, and the public.
• Map regulatory loopholes and engage with UCS to inform policy implications, while integrating equity and justice principles into all research.

This role will expose how AI's energy demands are being shaped by corporate profit rather than public need, and whether fossil fuel interests are partnering with tech giants to lock in fossil fuel infrastructure, thereby empowering regulators, advocates, and communities with evidence to hold polluters accountable and advance a just energy transition.

• PhD in energy systems, environmental policy, geography, data science, or closely related discipline, with experience in interdisciplinary or mixed-methods research.
• Proficiency in a scripting language (Python preferred; R or Julia acceptable); familiarity with version control (git/GitHub) is a plus.
• Experience with emissions accounting, energy-systems analysis, corporate-disclosure research, and narrative/discourse analysis strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated commitment to justice and public-interest research; familiarity with AI landscape, tech policy, and environmental justice is a plus.

This is a full-time remote position. Salary is $109,232.02 (USD) for those who meet all position requirements. UCS offers excellent benefits and a rewarding work environment. California residents receive a 12% salary differential.

The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) is an independent nonprofit that puts rigorous, independent science into action, developing solutions and advocating for a healthy, safe, and just future. For over five decades, UCS has worked to combat global warming, develop sustainable ways to feed, power, and transport ourselves, fight disinformation, advance racial equity, and reduce the threat of nuclear war.