About the Opportunity
The Institute for Human Rights and Business (IHRB) is seeking a passionate Junior Research Fellow to support its Just Transitions Programme. This six-month, fully remote, paid position is an excellent opportunity for individuals seeking to gain work experience while contributing to human rights and climate justice. The ideal candidate should have a strong research background, attention to detail, and a passion for advancing social justice in the context of climate action.
Key Responsibilities
As a Junior Research Fellow, you will support IHRB’s multi-year policy-influencing research projects across the Just Transitions Programme, including:
Desk Research & Literature Review: Conduct research on sustainability science and policy related to corporate climate action, particularly around renewables, decarbonisation initiatives, and financial instruments aligned with just transition principles.
Stakeholder Mapping & Interviews: Assist in mapping key stakeholders and transcribing interviews with professionals across various sectors, with a focus on renewable energy and just transition partnerships.
Project Communications: Help develop and distribute the Just Transitions newsletter and support project outreach and communication efforts.
Additional Tasks: Attend internal meetings, providing insights and contributing to IHRB’s mentoring and networking opportunities.
About the Organisation
Founded in 2009, IHRB is a leading international think tank that works to make respect for human rights a core part of business operations. By conducting in-depth research, engaging in dialogue with stakeholders, and providing impartial advice to governments, businesses, and international organisations, IHRB advances human rights-based approaches to global challenges.
About the Just Transition Programme
The Just Transitions Programme focuses on ensuring that the voices of those affected by climate change and climate-related policies are central to decision-making processes. By focusing on research and policy, IHRB helps businesses, governments, and other stakeholders address the social and human rights challenges associated with the transition to a low-carbon economy. Key projects include:
The Cost of Green Conflict: Examining the social licence issues faced by renewable energy companies.
Just Stories: Sharing narratives of positive engagement between public and private sectors and impacted communities.
Just Energy Transition Partnerships (JETP): Exploring how businesses can play a positive role in national decarbonisation efforts, with studies already completed in South Africa and plans to expand to Indonesia and Senegal.
What We Offer
Contract Duration: 6 months (February – August 2025)
Working Hours: Full-time (37.5 hours/week) or part-time (30 hours/week)
Compensation: £1,725/month (pro-rata for part-time)
Location: Remote, within 3-4 hours of GMT.
Career Development: Gain hands-on experience in human rights, climate action, and policy research, while contributing to projects that influence global business practices.
Who Should Apply
We are looking for individuals with:
Experience: At least 2-3 years of relevant work experience.
Research Skills: Proven ability to conduct research and present well-researched analysis.
Interest: A strong passion for human rights, climate action, and social justice.
Skills: Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and communicate effectively. Proficiency in Google Sheets and research writing is required; additional language skills are a plus.
Adaptability: Willingness to learn and work in a remote team environment.
Application Process
Deadline: 9am GMT on 31 December 2024
Interviews: Shortlisted candidates will be invited to video interviews during the week of 13 January 2025.
Start Date: Ideally 3 February 2025
Click Apply Now to submit your application and answer some specific questions regarding your experience and motivation.
