Research Associate

Job Posting Organization:
World Resources Institute (WRI) is an independent, nonprofit global research organization founded in 1982, with a mission to move human society to live in ways that protect Earth’s environment and its capacity to provide for the needs and aspirations of current and future generations. WRI has nearly 1,800 staff located around the world and operates in 12 focus countries including China, Brazil, Colombia, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Mexico, Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, and the United States. The organization is known for its research-based approaches to meet essential needs, protect and restore nature, stabilize the climate, and build resilient communities. Over the past five years, WRI has doubled its staff size and emphasizes diversity in its workforce, encouraging applications from U.S. minorities, individuals from developing nations, and women of all backgrounds. WRI China, established in 2008, has over 60 full-time employees and focuses on Sustainable Transition, Sustainable Finance Investment, and Food & Nature Resources, engaging with various stakeholders to advance sustainable development and ecological civilization.

Job Overview:
The Research Associate will join the Sustainable Transition Center at WRI, contributing to the design and implementation of research projects aimed at facilitating sustainable practices in climate change. The role involves engaging with a wide range of stakeholders, including policymakers, businesses, and civil society, to promote transformative solutions for climate mitigation and adaptation in China. The Research Associate will leverage WRI’s global expertise to enhance the effectiveness of their work in China and disseminate policy recommendations through various knowledge products. This position is crucial for supporting WRI's mission to accelerate low-carbon development in China, particularly in key sectors such as energy, manufacturing, transport, and building, as well as in significant regions like the Yangtze River Delta and Greater Bay Area.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Research Associate will be responsible for several key areas: 1) Research and Strategy (50%): This includes supporting the team lead in developing and updating climate mitigation and adaptation research plans, tracking domestic and international policies related to climate change, and authoring knowledge products such as reports and blogs. 2) Program Management (30%): The role involves monitoring and managing project deliverables, ensuring compliance with WRI's reporting and budgeting processes, and providing financial administration support. 3) Engagement (20%): The Research Associate will foster relationships with stakeholders, organize meetings and workshops, and represent WRI at various events to promote its mission and objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in economics, environmental science, energy and industry policy, public policy, or related fields. A minimum of eight years of experience in climate mitigation, energy, and low-carbon transition is required. Professional expertise in climate adaptation and economic analysis is highly valued. Strong research, analytical, and writing skills are essential, with a preference for candidates with a track record of published work. The ability to work effectively in a team, manage multiple priorities, and operate independently is crucial, along with excellent interpersonal skills and the capacity to thrive in a multicultural environment.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Master’s degree in relevant fields such as economics, environmental science, energy and industry policy, or public policy. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of climate change and sustainable development.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of eight years of relevant experience in climate mitigation, energy, and low-carbon transition. This level of experience is necessary to effectively contribute to the research and implementation of projects aimed at achieving sustainable practices in climate change.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as the role involves extensive writing and communication with international stakeholders. Proficiency in Mandarin is also highly desirable, given the focus on local engagement and policy work in China.

Additional Notes:
This position is offered on a two-year fixed labor contract, project-based. It is a full-time role based in Beijing, China. The salary will be commensurate with experience and skills, and WRI provides a comprehensive benefits package. The application deadline is ASAP until the position is filled, and candidates must apply through the WRI Careers portal to be considered. The final candidate will be required to take a writing test.