Research Associate – Policy

SEI Asia works at the forefront of socially and environmentally sustainable development in Asia. Since establishing our office in Bangkok, Thailand in 2004, we have built a strong presence and identity in the region through high-quality and credible scientific research in gender, climate change, water resource management, disaster risk reduction, agriculture, and urbanization, coupled with effective policy engagement and expanding public and media outreach.

The role

SEI Asia is seeking a Research Associate with a proven background and experience in strategic international policy frameworks related to global development and environment, as well as core interests and expertise of SEI to support our efforts in creating policy impact through research.

SEI Asia is currently implementing a number of programs that require intense policy engagement and collaboration with boundary partners for impact reporting. 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 organizations.

The Research Associate will report directly to the assigned line manager (Senior Policy Coordinator) and respective project leaders/managers that he/she will work with, and under the overall supervision of the Centre Director.

Main responsibilities

• Work with an emerging and dynamic team to carry out policy research, engagement and communications activities and participate in developing new research and policy activities.
• Participate in analyses and development of targeted policy publications and other project outputs such as discussion briefs, new media pieces and visual material.
• Develop and maintain partnerships with policy 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 policy portfolio.
• Support in developing a policy research agenda and implementing policy research projects.
• 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, gender, climate change, agriculture and disaster risk reduction, 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.

Skills and qualifications required

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

• Masters’ degree in a relevant subject such as political sciences, human geography or other related humanities, economics, social sciences or environmental sciences
• Minimum of two years of experience of working in policy-related research and/or policy development
• A publication record in academic and/or policy literature
• 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
• Ability to travel regionally and internationally as projects require
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English

Desirable knowledge and experience

• Working knowledge of an Asian language
• Experience working in Asia
• Proven capacity in project management and proposal development

How to apply

We are reviewing applications on an ongoing basis so please submit your application as soon as possible, however no later than 30 April 2019, 23:59 ICT. As we only accept applications through our online recruitment system, use the button below and include:

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