Volunteer - Principal Research Officers (Energy & Environment)

Number of Vacancies: 2

Role Nature: Voluntary (unpaid)

Estimated Time Requirements: 8 hours per week on average

Location: Home-based

The Blockchain & Climate Institute (BCI) is an international volunteers-led think tank supporting and advocating the application of blockchain technology in the global fight against climate change.

We are looking for passionate and senior research VOLUNTEERS to join the Energy & Environment Research Division (Research Division II) at the BCI as Principal Research officers, specializing in either Energy (PRO(II)1) or Environmental Policy PRO(II)2. We are seeking professionals who take a methodological approach to their work, possess strong research and leadership skills, and have a passion for stakeholder engagement and establishing strategic partnerships to progress BCI’s core mission. We are particularly interested in candidates with research experience in biodiversity (e.g. forest conservation), circular economy, renewable energy, and/or climate adaptation. Supporting the Director of Research (Energy and Environment).

Responsibilities will include:

• 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;
• Analyzing both quantitative and qualitative data using suitable methodologies, drawing appropriate conclusions, and presenting finds 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 Energy & Environment Research Division;
• Providing support in project management, divisional administration tasks, and recruitment duties to the Director of Research (Energy and Environment).

Skills & Abilities

• 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 writing skills and the ability to tailor communications to the intended audience;
• Excellent research skills and a methodological and detail-orientated approach;
• Strong organizational skills and ability to balance competing demands under pressure;
• Strong presentation skills and ability to present ideas appropriately and persuasively; and
• Aptitude in Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish (desirable).

General & Specialist Knowledge

• 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 (PRO(II)1) or Environmental Policy (PRO(II)2)); and
• Generalist knowledge on topics central to the BCI such as climate change policy, adaptation and resilience, and blockchain technology.

Education & Training

• An undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline; and
• A postgraduate research degree or equivalent professional research experience.

Relevant 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; and
• Experience in working independently and with teams to drive forward projects using one's own initiative.

Blockchain and other emerging technologies. Climate change and sustainability. These are two hot topic groups that have been headlining media outlets, dominating conferences & events, and gaining increasing traction in research and pilot projects. BCI is here as an expert platform to help governments, inter-governmental and regional organizations as well as relevant corporates to negotiate the complex landscape of emerging technologies for environmental good. We cement our expertise by putting in the hard work in researching, identifying, and analyzing the applications of emerging technologies so that informed decisions can be made by the stakeholders in the climate change and action network.

Benefits you will get from volunteering with BCI are enormous and some include:

• 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; and
• Help you develop long-lasting professional relationships with others. People who come together to make the world a better place forge a close connection.

Before you apply

Candidates must submit their CV, cover letter, and example of English writing to us within their application. If shortlisted, you will be contacted by one of our recruiters to complete 2 x 45 minutes assessments. If successful, you will be asked to complete an in-tray exercise based on the role you have applied for prior to an interview with the Division Director. Please note that your details will be held in respect of GDPR compliance, for future volunteering opportunities with the BCI.