Jim Powell, Ph.D.

Jim Powell conducts research in several Alaskan and Arctic communities on adaptive capacity, and measuring socio-economic impacts around climate change, COVID 19, and food security. Jim has worked with the Fairbanks Northstar Borough and co-authored their recent Sustainability Plan. Currently, Jim serves on Juneau’s Sustainability Commission. Jim also teaches natural resources and local government classes in the UAS MPA program. His research is informed by 35 years in Alaska managing environmental and natural resource programs mostly spent at the Department of Environmental Conservation including Special Assistant to the Commissioner, a Division Director, and managed the Water Quality Standards Program. Jim’s interest in local governance led him to run for public office and consequently served three terms on the City and Borough of Juneau Assembly including three years as Deputy Mayor. He balances his teaching and research with serving on nonprofit boards and consults with local communities on environmental issues and sustainability planning.