Inclusive and low-carbon Development Research Analyst, China Sustainable Cities Program

Overview

We seek a Research Analyst to support the Sustainable Cities Program work in China. The Research Analyst will undertake research on China’s inclusive and low-carbon development, especially focusing on evaluating and propelling China’s just transition in urban sectors. In this role, you will participate in research activities across the global Cities network and other departments of WRI. You will actively engage with WRI colleagues at WRI China office and across the programs and countries, as well as external partners.

Responsibilities

Projects research (70% of time)

• Undertaking evidence-based research on China’s inclusive and low-carbon development, including literature review, case studies, and indicator system development, focusing on equitable transition tracking and evaluation at subnational levels.
• Co-authoring knowledge products, including blogs, working papers, and reports.
• Preparing presentation slides and presenting at internal and external meetings.
• In coordination with others, identifying knowledge gaps and potential research activities that will best advance the program’s goal
• Contributing to project concept papers, proposals, and progress reports.

Projects administration (30% of time)

• Supporting the program’s daily operations and assisting in organizing internal and external convenings.
• Conducting outreach and engaging partners, as well as WRI colleagues across the programs and countries.
• Supporting the preparation of fundraising documents and the identification of opportunities for the program.

Qualifications

• Education:
  • Advanced degree in energy studies; environmental and sustainable studies; finance/economics; or related field, with at least 3 years of professional work experience in China.
• Experience:
  • At least 3 years of full-time relevant work experience in thinktanks, research institutes, NGOs, and other related organizations
  • Demonstrated experience with sustainable development and/or just transition topics
  • An interest in problem-focused research with skills in qualitative and/or quantitative research methods (statistical and economic analysis)
  • Evidence of research and writing in peer-reviewed journals and similar publications
  • An ability to work independently and effectively and willingness to travel with minimum supervision and with attention to detail
  • Superb interpersonal skills and demonstrated ability to work collegially with others and with the highest standards of integrity
  • Skilled at working in a multi-stakeholder environment and bridging diverging views among stakeholders
• Language
  • Verbal and written proficiency in English and Chinese

• Final candidate will be required to take a writing test. Finalists will need to submit at least 1 writing sample in English, preferably a published journal article.

Opportunity Summary

• Reporting: Sustainable Cities Program, WRI China Office
• Salary and Benefits: Salary is commensurate with experience and skills. WRI offers a generous, comprehensive benefits package
• Duration: Full-time regular
• Location: Beijing, China

How to Apply:

Please submit a resume with a cover letter by the date of the f application deadline. An application should be submitted to the WRI Careers portal to be considered.

About WRI:

Founded in 1982, World Resources Institute (WRI) is an independent, nonprofit global research organization that turns big ideas into action at the nexus of environment, economic opportunity, and human well-being. We are working to address seven critical challenges that the world overcomes this decade to secure a sustainable future for people and the planet: climate change, energy, food, forests, water, sustainable cities, and the ocean. WRI has a global staff of over 1,800 people with work spanning 60 countries. We have offices in Africa, Brazil, China, Europe, India, Indonesia, Mexico, Colombia and the United States, as well as a growing presence in other countries and regions.

The foundation of our work is delivering high-quality research, data, maps, and analysis to solve the world’s greatest environment and international development challenges and improve people’s lives. We work with leaders in government, business, and civil society to drive ambitious action and create change on the ground. Equally important, we bring together partners to develop breakthrough ideas and scale-up solutions for far-reaching, enduring impact.

What we offer

We have been growing rapidly: our staff has doubled in size over the past 5 years, and our operating budget is nearing $200 million.

Our values and mission

We are passionate. We value our diversity of interests, skills, and backgrounds. We have a flexible work environment. And we share a common goal to catalyze change that will improve the lives of people. Our shared ideals are at the core of our approach. They include integrity, innovation, urgency, independence, and respect.

Our culture

WRI is committed to advancing gender and social equity for human well-being in our mission and applies this principle to our organizational and programmatic practices. We are committed to providing equal opportunities in employment, we embrace all diversity and encourage women, the LGBTQ+ community, persons with disabilities, Afro-descendants, and Indigenous people to apply. Recognizing our strong commitment to gender equality, WRI has also been awarded EDGE certification.

Our team in Human Resources carefully reviews all applications.