In this role, you will join a rapidly growing team of researchers and geospatial analysts focused on improving global monitoring of land and associated greenhouse gas fluxes. You should have a proven record of designing and executing independent research and a broad familiarity with a range of research methods, strong writing skills, and a deep understanding of the links between research findings and current national and international policy debates. You will serve as a thought leader, advancing WRI’s reputation for translating cutting-edge scientific research into policy-relevant insights.

The role will involve developing and managing original research products related to land and carbon monitoring at various spatial scales, in consultation with other members of the L&C Watch team and partners. You will lead the development of analytical content, draft and publish peer-reviewed papers, working papers, policy briefs and blogs. In addition to producing research and analysis outputs, the position will play a key role in leveraging the products through presentations and other forums to influence external and internal debates and decisions around nature-based solutions. Finally, you will contribute new research proposals and partnerships, to help expand the scope and impact of WRI’s research and influence.

This position is remote due to COVID-19, but will be based at WRI’s office in Washington, DC once restrictions have lifted. 

Job Responsibilities

Research and Analysis (70%):

• Perform literature reviews and information on various aspects of the terrestrial carbon cycle to inform project strategy
• Compile, organize and synthesize existing data from various sources including government, NGOs and academic research 
• Develop and test innovative approaches for monitoring terrestrial carbon dynamics using newly collected data and advances in remote sensing, data science, artificial intelligence and geostatistics
• Coordinate research projects across various internal and external partners to maximize both expertise and resources
• Conduct geospatial and other data analyses that support policy-relevant research and applications

Strategy development and priority setting (10%):

• In collaboration with L&C Watch leadership, co-create a strategic roadmap that identifies thematic and geographic research priorities for terrestrial GHG monitoring
• Assist in building a pipeline of opportunities for research projects and oversee the implementation of specific projects within the broader portfolio
• Maintain an understanding of evolving trends in land-related climate policy, adjusting research roadmap and priorities as necessary

Communication and Outreach (10%):

• Promote uptake of research through publishing in accessible outlets, participating and presenting in high-profile meetings, and leveraging connections with other experts 
• Serve as internal and external expert to influence policy discussions on land-related climate issues
• Assist with the drafting of talking points and key messages for senior management staff
• Support production of written and graphic content for reports, internal briefs, blogs, presentations, press releases, etc.  

Program Development and Administration (10%) :

• Support development of concept notes and proposals for additional funding to support priority research topics
• Support development of work plans and related internal systems and processes to ensure timely execution of activities and delivery of outputs 
• Liaise with external partners and WRI colleagues across programs and countries  
• Organize internal and external meetings, workshops, conferences