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SEI Asia is seeking a highly motivated individual with a solid understanding of development and climate change adaptation issues in Asia and the Pacific. We are particularly looking for someone who is keen in using research or knowledge production as a vehicle to advance development agendas. The Research Associate will work towards producing knowledge on how at-risk communities can anticipate, absorb, and adapt to the impacts of climate change in a manner that is rights-based and inclusive. The successful candidate will be based in SEI’s Asia Centre in Bangkok, Thailand and will be part of the Climate Change, Disasters and Development cluster. The Research Associate will pursue research projects that reflect SEI’s mandate. Through its research, SEI seeks to share knowledge, promote debate and contribute to evidence-based policy making for more sustainable, resilient and inclusive societies across Asia. Research activities are carried out in a collaborative manner, building and strengthening engagement with varied stakeholders ranging from local and national governments, multi-lateral agencies, NGOs and local community organisations.

The Research Associate will report directly to the assigned Line Manager (Cluster Lead) and respective project leaders/managers that they will work with, and under the overall supervision of the Centre Director.

Main responsibilities

• Carry out research, engagement and communication activities and participate in developing new research activities around the core research theme of climate change adaptation and related issues such as human rights and poverty
• Support in developing a research agenda and implementing research projects
• Participate in analyses and development of targeted research publications and other project outputs such as discussion briefs, new media pieces and visual material
• Develop and maintain partnerships with various actors and decision makers, such as government agencies, businesses, and regional/international development agencies
• Identify new opportunities and support fundraising activities, as well as strengthen multi-stakeholder partnership for enhancing SEI Asia’s portfolio
• Monitor and document relevant regional policy processes, instruments and performance results, as well as identify opportunities for engagement
• Take on administrative and reporting tasks related to projects, as well as own personal administrative tasks such as time reporting, and expenses claims

The Research Associate will be expected to work with colleagues from all research teams in SEI Asia including water resources, urban, gender, policy, and agriculture in developing cross-cutting programs of work. The role will also require collaboration with other SEI centres and colleagues internationally. The research associate will also contribute to other SEI-wide activities and reports as appropriate.

Who you are

We are looking for a person with a strong interest in designing and executing research projects, with excellent writing skills and who are able to communicate and collaborate with a variety of actors.

• Masters’ degree in a relevant subject such as political sciences, human geography, humanities, economics, social sciences or environmental sciences
• Minimum of two years of experience working in climate change adaptation research and/or policy development
• At least 2-3 publications in peer-reviewed journals and/or high-quality book chapters
• Knowledge in human rights or rights-based approaches
• Ability to communicate to a diverse audience through written outputs and other media
• Ability to work in and appreciate a diverse, international environment
• Ability to effectively multi-task and meet deadlines
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English
• Ability to travel regionally and internationally as projects require
• Ability to work independently

Desirable knowledge and experience

• Working knowledge of an Asian language
• Experience working in Asia
• Proven capacity in project management and proposal development
• Demonstrated experience in working with local communities and marginal groups

How to apply:

We are reviewing applications on an ongoing basis so please submit your application as soon as possible, however no later than the 30^th May, 23:59 ICT. As we only accept applications through our recruitment system, please apply online and include:

• Curriculum vitae or resume
• Cover letter highlighting relevant qualifications and experience

For inquiries about the position, please contact Albert Salamanca (albert.salamanca@sei.org) or Nipa Laithong (nipa.laithong@sei.org).

About SEI: Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI) is an independent, international research institute founded in 1989. Its mission is to support decision-making and induce change towards sustainable development around the world by providing integrative knowledge that bridges science and policy in the field of environment and development. SEI was ranked as the second most influential environment think tank in the world in the Global Go To Think Tank Report 2017, compiled by the University of Pennsylvania's Think Tanks and Civil Societies Program. SEI has around 240 employees working at research centres in seven countries around the world. SEI’s headquarters are located in Stockholm, Sweden. Additional SEI research centres are located in Kenya (SEI Africa) Estonia (SEI Tallinn); United Kingdom (SEI York and SEI Oxford); the United States (SEI US); Thailand (SEI Asia); and Colombia (SEI Latin America).