ThaiNGO

SEI is seeking a Research Associate to join our growing Asia centre that has a background in SDG research, along with synthesis of relevant programmes and policy impact. 

Through its programmes and research projects, SEI seeks to share knowledge, promote collaborative partnership, build capacity and contribute to evidence-based policy making for more sustainable, resilient and inclusive development. We achieve this through clear guidance, useful tools, and insights to catalyze and leverage SDG aligned investments, working towards accelerating SDG achievement.

Our research and programmes are carried out collaboratively through building and strengthening engagement with varied stakeholders that range from local and national governments to multi-lateral agencies, NGOs, the private sector and local community organizations. 

The Research Associate will report directly to the assigned Line Manager (Policy Cluster Lead) and respective SDG-related research project leaders, under the overall supervision of the Centre Director.

Main responsibilities:

• Coordinate with research teams in SEI Asia and other SEI centres to synthesize ongoing programme and research outcomes towards the SDGs and participate in developing new research projects and ensure aligned thinking and planning on SEI Asia SDG interactions, both internally but, critically, externally with our partners.  This will include the application of appropriate M&E techniques and impact assessment methods, including desk reviews, qualitative and quantitative approaches and analyses and interpretation of programmes and research results, as well as analyses of implications for policies and practice.
• Work as part of the SEI policy unit on how to best drive SDG delivery from research within SEI globally and from our partners to a wider audience of key decision makers.
• Participate in writing up and disseminating SEI’s integrated work on the SDGs through peer-reviewed publications and other research outputs such as project reports, policy briefings, conference presentations and digital publications. 
• Promote SEI’s innovative tools and methods to partners and wider stakeholders to enhance the capacity of governments and other actors to adopt SDG related systems and decision-making.
• Develop and disseminate a diverse suite of communications products such as features, blog posts, photo stories, infographics and other printed and digital products in conjunction with the Communications team. 
• Identify potential future areas of work through new opportunities for research and outreach and support mobilization of funds for the SEI Asia, including donor outreach and analysis.
• Represent SEI at external events and participate in networking with relevant institutions and organisations.
• Manage administrative, reporting, and Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL) tasks related to programmes and research projects.

The Research Associate will work in the Policy unit to develop cross-cutting SEI impacts on SDG achievement through collaboration with SEI Asia’s research and programme teams, that include the research themes of climate change adaptation, water resources, agriculture, gender, city health and well-being and disaster risk reduction. The Research Associate will also work with project partners on the application of SDG tools and SDG-related research. The role will require collaboration with other SEI centres and SEI Headquarters. The Associate will contribute to a wide range of programmes and research projects, in addition to other SEI-wide activities and communications. 

Skills and qualifications required

We seek a professional with a strong interest and proven track record in impact management and M&E of SDG-related programmes or research projects, with excellent verbal/writing skills and the ability to communicate and collaborate effectively with a variety of actors.

• Master's Degree in a relevant subject such as international development, social science or business management.
• Minimum of five years of professional experience in the areas of environment and/or international development, with a focus on linking the SDGs to policy impact as a researcher and/or practitioner in topics such as sustainable development, public-private partnerships and social inclusion. Demonstrated ability to work with various stakeholders.
• Analytical skills and the ability to quickly grasp and synthesize research results, programme outcomes and evidence-based conclusions from a range of technical and non-technical sources.
• Ability to communicate to a diverse audience through high-quality written outputs and communication products.
• Openness to working in a diverse international team.
• Ability to prioritize and manage assignments in a timely manner and produce results in a dynamic environment. 
• Ability to provide tailored support to boundary partners and reach out to potential partners.
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally as programmes or projects require.

Desirable qualifications:

• Fluency in an Asian language is desirable.
• Experience working in Asian countries is highly desirable.
• Experience related to programme management, monitoring and evaluation, private sector partnership in addition to SDG impact management, is a strong advantage.

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 2018, compiled by the University of Pennsylvania's Think Tanks and Civil Societies Program.

SEI has approximately 240 employees working at research centres in seven countries around the world. SEI’s headquarters are 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).

SEI Asia, based in Bangkok, has a diverse team of multinational experts that integrates scientific research with participatory approaches to co-develop and share knowledge, build partnerships, and influence policy for resilient development. It focuses on gender and social equity, climate adaptation, reducing disaster risk, water insecurity and integrated water resources management, transitional agriculture, energy futures and city health and wellbeing. SEI Asia is an affiliate of Chulalongkorn University, Thailand.

How to apply:

 Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis. Please submit your application as soon as possible, and no later than October 16th, 23:59 ICT. Applications are only accepted through our online recruitment system (https://www.sei.org/people/jobs/research-associate-sdgs/). Please click the button below to apply and include:

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

For inquiries about this position, please contact Wanaporn Yangyuentham, Programme Manager (wanaporn.yangyuentham@sei.org) or Nipa Laithong, HR Officer (nipa.laithong@sei.org).