Principal/Senior Research Officers

Summary

Join the Blockchain & Climate Institute (BCI) as a Principal/Senior Research Officer in the Energy & Environment Research Division. This is an unpaid volunteer role based remotely, focusing on research in areas like renewable energy, carbon trading, and biodiversity. You will conduct independent research, analyze data, and deliver high-quality reports. The role requires strong research, communication, and leadership skills, along with experience in project management. Successful candidates will have a postgraduate degree or equivalent experience and at least 10 years of relevant research experience. Volunteering with BCI offers opportunities to hone research and presentation skills, gain real-world experience, and build professional connections.

Requirements

• Excellent communication and leadership skills, including the ability to develop effective working relationships, work flexibly across professional and operational boundaries, and communicate effectively and professionally with internal and external stakeholders at all levels
• Strong English speaking and writing skills, and the ability to tailor communications to the intended audience
• Excellent research skills and a methodological and detail-oriented approach
• Strong organisational skills and ability to balance competing demands under pressure
• Strong presentation skills and ability to present ideas appropriately and persuasively
• Demonstrable knowledge of qualitative and quantitative research methods
• Proficiency in the use of Microsoft Office and reference management software (e.g. Mendeley, Zotero)
• Specialist knowledge relevant to the role (Energy or Environmental Policy)
• Generalist knowledge on topics central to the BCI such as climate change policy, adaptation and resilience, and blockchain technology
• Undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline
• Postgraduate research degree or equivalent professional research experience
• 10 years experience in designing, planning, facilitating, and conducting independent/academic research
• Experience in supervising colleagues and leading projects
• Experience working in a target-driven role with tight deadlines
• Experience in building constructive relationships with stakeholders
• Experience in working independently and with teams to drive forward projects using one's own initiative

Responsibilities

• Conducting independent primary and secondary research in areas such as renewable energy, carbon trading, biodiversity and conservation, climate change adaptation, natural resource management, blockchain technology, and artificial intelligence, especially for developing-country governments
• Analysing both quantitative and qualitative data using suitable methodologies, drawing appropriate conclusions, and presenting findings clearly and concisely
• Delivering high-quality research outputs, such as written reports, concept notes, briefing materials, and presentations
• Providing research guidance and mentoring to Research Officers/ Senior Research Officers within the Energy & Environment Research Division
• Providing support in project management, divisional administration tasks, and recruitment duties to the Director of Research (Energy and Environment)

Benefits

• You will hone or learn new skills including research, presentation, writing, professional etiquette
• Your mind will be mentally stimulated, hence providing you with a sense of purpose
• You will advance and boost your professional career by helping you to make professional connections and giving you real-world experience at the intersection between climate and emerging technologies
• Help you develop long-lasting professional relationships with others. People who come together to make the world a better place forge a close connection