Economics Research Associate - Climate

Note: This position use two-year fixed labor contract (project base)

Summary:

WRI is committed to accelerate low-carbon development in China to achieve carbon peak before 2030 and carbon neutrality before 2060. We use a multi-pronged approach to work with a wide range of stakeholders, from governments, to businesses, academia, NGOs, financial institutions, and practitioners to explore win-win solutions for climate and economy.

Transition for key sectors and subnational regions, are playing important roles in realizing the above goals. Decarbonization of power, manufacturing, transport and building will contribute to the carbon emissions peak and carbon neutrality. Key development regions such as the Yangtze River Delta, Greater Bay Area, Jing-Jin-Ji, and Cheng-Yu are expected to lead the transitions and pioneer innovative technical and policy solutions. WRI China has been actively working in these sectors and regions to facilitate an orderly, rapid, and equitable transition towards carbon neutrality. We develop analytical models and undertake policy analyses to identify solutions for systematic transitions of key sectors, including energy, industry, transport, etc.

We are seeking a Research Associate to join the Sustainable Transition Center, who will contribute or lead research design and oversee project implementation, as well as disseminate policy recommendations through knowledge products and stakeholder engagement, helping to drive sustainable practices in climate change area.

You will work with our in-house and external specialists to conduct research and engage with policymakers, businesses, the civil society at the local, national, and international levels to advance transformative solutions for China. You will have opportunities to leverage WRI’s global network of expertise to deliver our works in China and share our experience with our global networks across the continents.

Responsibilities:

Research and strategy (50%)

• Support the team lead in developing and updating climate mitigation and adaptation research and engagement plan, aligning WRI’s China Country Strategy.
• Track domestic and international policies in the field of climate mitigation and adaptation, focusing on key topics such as target setting, policy making and implementation, progress toward decarbonization, adaptation finance, etc.
• Author or co-author knowledge products, such as report, working paper, blogs, etc, and develop timely analysis for both internal and external audiences in the above-mentioned areas.
• Support climate related projects at sub-national level in Sichuan and other when needed.

Program management (30%)

• Monitor and manage project deliverables, working with team members to deliver according to work plans and milestones, track implementation and respond to donor requests.
• Provide support on project’s financial administration, review compliance with WRI reporting, budgeting and processes.

Engagement (20%)

• Foster collaborative relationships with key stakeholders at international, national and subnational levels.
• Work with WRI and external colleagues to organize meetings, workshops, and other dissemination activities
• Representing WRI at workshops, conferences and other events to promote our mission and objectives.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Master’s degree in economics, environmental science, energy and industry policy, public policy or related fields.
• Minimum of eight years of experience in climate mitigation, energy, and low-carbon transition.
• Professional expertise and experience in climate adaptation, just transition and economics analysis will be of significant value to this position.
• Strong research, analytical, and writing skills, with a track record of published work preferred.
• Ability to work effectively in a team, handle multiple priorities, and work independently.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to work in a multicultural environment with high professional integrity.
• Flexibility to travel domestically and internationally as required.

Reporting: Climate Lead, Sustainable Transition Center

Salary and Benefits: Salary is commensurate with experience and skills. WRI offers a generous, comprehensive benefits package.

Duration: Full-time

Deadline: ASAP till filled