Job Description
Position(s): Research Specialist
Organization: UNIRISD
Deadline: 09 March 2025
The United Nations Research Institute for Social Development (UNRISD) is a leading international research institute that produces knowledge and analysis to support the implementation of the United Nations’ (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). As a key part of its efforts to promote sustainable development, UNRISD is now seeking a Senior Research Specialist – Environment and Climate Justice to join its team.
About the Role
As a Senior Research Specialist – Environment and Climate Justice, you will be responsible for conducting research, analysis, and policy advice on environment and climate change issues, with a focus on climate justice. The role will involve working with researchers, policymakers, and other stakeholders to develop and implement research projects, publications, and policy briefs that contribute to the realization of the SDGs, particularly Goal 13 (Climate Action) and Goal 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy).
The Senior Research Specialist will be based in Geneva, Switzerland, and will report to the Director of UNRISD. The role requires strong research, analytical, and communication skills, as well as experience in working with diverse stakeholders and managing large-scale research projects.
Responsibilities
- Design and implement research projects on environment and climate change issues, including climate justice, sustainable development, and human rights;
- Contribute to the development of research publications, policy briefs, and reports that are accessible to a diverse audience;
- Work closely with researchers, policymakers, and other stakeholders to identify research needs and priorities, and to develop effective research and policy approaches;
- Collaborate with other research institutes, UN agencies, and civil society organizations to advance the Institute’s research agenda and build partnerships;
- Provide research and policy advice to governments, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders on environment and climate change issues;
- Develop and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including researchers, policymakers, and other experts in the field;
- Supervise and lead junior researchers and assistants as needed;
- Contribute to the management and administration of the Institute’s research portfolio, including developing and managing project budgets and work plans.
Requirements
To be considered for the position of Senior Research Specialist – Environment and Climate Justice, you will need to meet the following requirements:
- A Master’s or Ph.D. in a relevant field, such as environmental science, climate change, human rights, sustainable development, or international relations;
- At least 5 years of experience in research and policy analysis on environment and climate change issues;
- Strong knowledge of the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 13 (Climate Action) and Goal 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy);
- Proven experience in conducting research, analysis, and policy advice on climate change and sustainable development issues;
- Strong analytical, writing, and communication skills;
- Ability to work in a team environment and collaborate with diverse stakeholders;
- Strong project management skills, including budgeting and planning;
- Fluency in English and French; other UN languages are an asset.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in conducting interdisciplinary research, including research on climate change and sustainable energy;
- Strong knowledge of climate justice and human rights issues;
- Ability to develop and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including governments, civil society organizations, and other research institutions;
- Experience working on SDG 13 (Climate Action) and/or SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy);
- Knowledge of UN agencies, particularly UN Environment and UN Human Rights, and other relevant institutions.
Why Work at UNRISD?
As a Senior Research Specialist – Environment and Climate Justice at UNRISD, you will have the opportunity to:
- Contribute to the realization of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 13 (Climate Action) and Goal 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy);
- Work with a team of experienced researchers and policymakers to develop and implement high-quality research projects;
- Collaborate with key stakeholders, including governments, civil society organizations, and other research institutions, to advance the Institute’s research agenda and build partnerships;
- Develop your skills and experience in research, policy analysis, and international development;
- Work in a dynamic and inclusive environment that values diversity and promotes equality.
What We Are Offering
We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, including:
- A salary commensurate with experience and qualifications;
- A comprehensive health insurance plan;
- A generous leave package, including vacation and sick leave;
- Opportunities for professional development and training;
- A dynamic and inclusive work environment.
How to Apply
If you are a motivated and experienced researcher with a passion for sustainable development and climate justice, we encourage you to apply for the position of Senior Research Specialist – Environment and Climate Justice at UNRISD. Please submit your application, including:
- A cover letter outlining your experience and qualifications for the position;
- A curriculum vitae;
- A writing sample (e.g. a policy brief, research paper, or publication);
- Contact information for at least two professional references.
The application deadline is 9 March 2025.
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About UNRISD
UNRISD is a leading international research institute that produces knowledge and analysis to support the implementation of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Institute was established in 1963 and is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. UNRISD works with researchers, policymakers, and other stakeholders to develop and implement research projects, publications, and policy briefs that contribute to the realization of the SDGs.
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UNRISD: Unlocking Sustainable Development
The United Nations Research Institute for Social Development (UNRISD) is a non-governmental research institute that produces knowledge and analysis to support the implementation of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Institute works with researchers, policymakers, and other stakeholders to develop and implement research projects, publications, and policy briefs that contribute to the realization of the SDGs. UNRISD is located in Geneva, Switzerland, and is one of the UN’s leading research institutes.
