SAIIA is Hiring: Climate Researcher

The South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA) is an independent, non-governmental, development and foreign policy think tank, focusing on South Africa’s and Africa’s international relations. Its goal is to contribute to the achievement of a well-governed, peaceful, economically sustainable, and globally engaged Africa. It has been consistently ranked among the top think tanks in Africa.

SAIIA seeks to make the following appointment: Climate Change Researcher- Cape Town (CCRGARP0721) (12-month contract with a possibility of renewal).

SAIIA is seeking to appoint a Climate Researcher to join the Institute’s Governance of Africa’s Resources Programme. The successful candidate will be responsible for supporting existing projects related to climate diplomacy, climate adaptation and climate finance, as well as supporting the Programme Head in fundraising activities to secure additional projects. Research will be both desktop and fieldwork-based (once COVID-19 restrictions allow for travel) and the successful candidate must have excellent research and writing skills as well as the ability to work in a flexible and demanding environment.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

The Climate Change Researcher will:

• Support the implementation of existing projects through research, writing, coordination and presentations.

• Support fundraising activities by scanning for fundraising opportunities, developing proposals and engaging with funders.

• Undertake research activities (desktop and fieldwork) under the direction of the Programme Head.

• Coordinate events, present research findings and facilitate workshops.

• Promote the dissemination of research outputs through social media, direct stakeholder engagement and media engagement.

• Undertake ongoing monitoring of developments in the field of climate mitigation and adaptation, supported by ongoing stakeholder mapping and engagement.

Essential experience, skills, qualifications:

• A Master’s degree in a relevant field such as development economics, international relations or political economy with a focus on climate change, sustainability or environmental science or related area.

• A minimum of five years’ relevant work experience.

• Fundraising experience would be an advantage.

• Strong national and Africa regional networks in relevant research and policy areas would be an advantage.

• Ability to create positive relationships with project teams and other stakeholders across the organisation.

Candidate should submit:

• A motivational letter quoting clearly the reference number of the position that they are applying for

• A comprehensive CV

• Academic transcripts of qualifications

• The names of three contactable references and two written references

• Two examples of (preferably short) articles published in the last year.

• A comprehensive publication list.

For more information on SAIIA and its research agenda please visit www.saiia.org.za.

Applications, clearly quoting the reference number of the position that they are applying for and with their contact details, should be submitted to Shannon Gard: Shannon.Gard@wits.ac.za. Please note that only short-listed candidates will be called in for an interview. Applications close on 06 August 2021.

Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.

Preference will be given to South African citizens and employment equity candidates.

SAIIA reserves the right not to make an appointment.