Research Associate 3

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Job Posting Title:

Research Associate 3 - Analytical

Position Type:

Other Academic

Department:

LSUAM ORED - IEI - Administration (Tyler Patrick Gray (00309480))

Work Location:

1067 Energy, Coast, and Environment Building

Pay Grade:

Other Academic

Job Description:

The Analyst Research Associate supports the Natural Resources Trust Authority by providing objective, data-driven analysis to strengthen Louisiana’s long-term approach to managing legacy energy assets. The role focuses on risk assessment, financial and operational profiling for plugging and abandonment (P&A) activities and evaluating efficient and transparent pathways for prioritizing state resources. The Research Associate will help leadership make informed, strategic funding decisions based on technical reality and fiscal responsibility. They build P&A profiles, risk assessments, financial evaluations, and restoration prioritization tools, providing the NRTA with the analytical foundation for long-horizon investment and liability-avoidance strategies. The Analyst Research Associate plays a direct role in standing up Louisiana’s Natural Resources Trust Authority simultaneously reducing its orphaned wells and long-term liabilities, protect good operators, and build a durable, financially sound system for managing natural resources. Fellows help the Authority see the full picture—risk, costs, timing, and opportunity—so the state can invest wisely and stay ahead of future challenges.

Job Responsibilities:

-Assess operational, environmental, and financial risk across Louisiana’s inventory of wells and associated infrastructure. (25%)

-Develop analytical profiles for P&A activities, including cost modeling, operator performance trends, and potential liability exposure. (20%)

-Build prioritization frameworks that help the Authority determine where state dollars generate the greatest long-term value. (10%)

-Support leadership with memos, dashboards, and decision tools that clarify tradeoffs, timelines, and funding strategies. (10%)

-Conduct research on best practices, national approaches, and emerging technologies relevant to decommissioning and legacy-asset management. (10%)

-Coordinate with geologists, engineers, economists, and legal staff across C&E to ensure analyses are integrated, accurate, and actionable. (10%)

-Assist in developing reporting structures and process improvements that strengthen the Authority’s financial oversight role. (10%)

-Other duties as assigned. (5%)

Minimum Qualifications:

Master’s degree in a related field or a bachelor's degree and two years related experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

Master's degree in a related field.

Additional Job Description:

Special Instructions:

Please provide a cover letter, resume, and three (3) professional references including name, title, phone number, and e-mail address.

Please attach ALL required documents under the "Resume/CV" section of your application.

A copy of your transcript(s) may be attached to your application (if available). However, original transcripts are required before hiring.

Due to the nature of the position and/or position responsibilities, this position shall be subject to pre-employment screenings in accordance with University Policy as required and RS:17 screenings (https://www.legis.la.gov/legis/Law.aspx?p=y&d=1297548).

For questions or concerns about updating your application with attachments (e.g., resumes, RS:17 documents), date of birth, or reactivating applications, please contact the LSU Human Resources Management Office at 225-578-8200 or email [email protected].
For questions or concerns regarding the status of your application or salary ranges, please contact Tyler Gray at [email protected].

Posting Date:

April 10, 2026

Closing Date (Open Until Filled if No Date Specified):

August 8, 2026

Additional Position Information:

Background Check - An offer of employment is contingent on a satisfactory pre-employment background check.

Benefits - LSU offers outstanding benefits to eligible employees and their dependents including health, life, dental, and vision insurance; flexible spending accounts; retirement options; various leave options; paid holidays; wellness benefits; tuition exemption for qualified positions; training and development opportunities; employee discounts; and more!

Positions approved to work outside the State of Louisiana shall be employed through Louisiana State University’s partner, nextSource Workforce Solutions, for Employer of Record Services including but not limited to employment, benefits, payroll, and tax compliance. Positions employed through Employer of Record Services will be offered benefits and retirement as applicable through their provider and will not be eligible for State of Louisiana benefits and retirement.

Essential Position (Y/N):

LSU is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

All candidates must have valid U.S. work authorization at the time of hire and maintain that valid work authorization throughout employment. Changes in laws, regulations, or government policies may impact the university’s ability to employ individuals in certain positions.

HCM Contact Information: