Volunteer Researcher for AI Startups in Sustainability

Job Posting Organization:
The UNDP Sustainable Energy Hub is a collaborative network that partners with countries to transform energy systems through an integrated agenda that emphasizes policy, technology, and financial shifts necessary for sustainable economic development. Established to address the pressing challenges of energy access and sustainability, the Hub aims to mobilize partners to enable 500 million additional people to gain access to sustainable, reliable, and affordable energy by the year 202

• The organization operates globally, focusing on the world's poorest communities, and is committed to promoting an integrated approach that supports energy for development while advancing the Sustainable Development Goals. The Hub is a response to the current geopolitical context affecting energy systems and seeks to accelerate the transformation towards net-zero, people-centered societies. UNDP's 2022-2025 Strategic Plan places sustainable energy at the core of its mission, with a commitment to mobilizing impactful partnerships to deliver tangible results on the ground.

Job Overview:
The position of Volunteer Researcher for AI Startups in Sustainability involves conducting structured desk research to map relevant startups and entrepreneurial ventures that apply artificial intelligence (AI) to environmental, energy, and climate challenges. Volunteers will be assigned a set of 10-15 countries and will be responsible for documenting each startup's location, founding year, problem focus, technology approach, and funding sources. The research will particularly emphasize ventures emerging in regions such as Latin America, Africa, and Southeast Asia, where innovation potential is high but visibility and support are limited. The role will also involve examining AI-for-energy-efficiency startups that address the energy footprint of AI itself, including innovations in low-power hardware and renewable-powered data centers. The final deliverable will be a comprehensive open database that serves as a foundational resource for policymakers, investors, and innovation hubs, helping to understand the landscape of AI innovation in sustainability and identify barriers to growth.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct structured desk research to identify and map AI startups focused on sustainability across designated countries.
• Document standardized attributes for each startup, including country or region, sector, founding year, AI method or technology, customer segments, and funding or partnerships.
• Identify ventures that focus on reducing the energy use and carbon emissions of AI systems, tracking solutions along the AI value chain.
• Analyze key barriers such as financing gaps, infrastructure limitations, and skills deficits that hinder the growth of green AI entrepreneurship in the Global South.
• Compile all research materials into a completed spreadsheet according to the mapping methodology for each identified startup.
• Collaborate with other volunteers and stakeholders to ensure comprehensive coverage and accuracy of the database.
• Provide insights and recommendations based on research findings to support targeted interventions for sustainable digital transformation and energy innovation.

Required Qualifications:

• Strong research skills with the ability to conduct thorough desk research.
• Familiarity with AI technologies and their applications in sustainability, energy, and environmental domains.
• Ability to analyze and synthesize complex information into standardized formats.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills to manage multiple countries and startups effectively.
• Strong communication skills to collaborate with team members and present findings clearly.
• A proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to work independently in a remote setting.

Educational Background:
A background in environmental science, sustainability, energy systems, computer science, or a related field is preferred. Candidates should have a strong understanding of AI technologies and their implications for sustainability and climate change. Relevant coursework or experience in research methodologies will be beneficial.

Experience:
While prior experience in research or sustainability projects is advantageous, it is not strictly required. Candidates should demonstrate a keen interest in AI applications for sustainability and a willingness to learn and adapt throughout the research process. Experience working in international contexts or with startups is a plus.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, as all research and documentation will be conducted in English. Knowledge of additional languages relevant to the assigned countries (e.g., Spanish, French, Portuguese) is considered a valuable asset and may enhance the research process.

Additional Notes:
This is a volunteer position, and the duration of the commitment is flexible based on the volunteer's availability. The role is fully remote, allowing volunteers to work from anywhere. This opportunity is ideal for individuals seeking to gain experience in research, sustainability, and the intersection of technology and environmental challenges. Volunteers will have the chance to contribute to a meaningful initiative that aims to foster sustainable digital transformation and inclusive economic development.