Position: Research Analyst, Sustainable Infrastructure  

Duration: 1 year, with the possibility of prolongation (depending on project funding) 

The International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD) is an independent think tank that delivers the knowledge to act. Its mission is to promote human development and environmental sustainability.  

The Infrastructure Program works with the Sustainable Asset Valuation (SAVi) methodology to make the case for investment in sustainable and nature-based infrastructure. SAVi assessments consider the wider environmental, social, and economic costs and benefits of infrastructure investments and incorporate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) risks into integrated cost-benefit analysis and project finance models. They work with public and private decision-makers to advocate for investment in sustainable and nature-based infrastructure based on the findings of the SAVi assessments.  

IISD is looking for a researcher with 3–5 years of expertise in social and environmental impact assessments to work with the SAVi methodology to assess the economic and financial viability of infrastructure projects.  

Responsibilities 

• Work with the Sustainable Asset Valuation (SAVi) methodology: contribute to its development, use, and deployment on energy and transport infrastructure investments, as well as nature-based infrastructure. This will include but is not limited to: 

• Research to understand and map the systemic impacts of specific infrastructure projects, notably in the areas of energy, transport, and nature-based infrastructure 
• Research on quantitative evidence on the financial, economic, social, and environmental gains that can be realized through the deployment of sustainable infrastructure 
• Facilitate virtual and/or in-person workshops to co-create the research with input from local stakeholders 
• Liaise with stakeholders to coordinate the research and dissemination of the results. 
• Develop technical advice and policy recommendations on sustainable and nature-based infrastructure to diverse audiences, including governmental decision-makers, parliamentarians, donors, and investors.  
• Prepare presentations, reports, blogs, policy briefs, and other materials on the results of SAVi assessments of infrastructure projects.  
• Present IISD work at events and conferences. 
• Other duties as assigned. 

 Required Skills and Qualifications 

• Master’s degree in (environmental) economics, social science, political science, environmental sciences, or a relevant interdisciplinary program or equivalent. 
• 3 to 5 years of proven research expertise on assessing the social and/or environmental impacts of infrastructure projects and/or policies. 
• Excellent research skills with knowledge of diverse quantitative and qualitative research methods. 
• Knowledge on sustainable infrastructure; measuring, quantifying, and monetizing the risks, impacts, and externalities of infrastructure projects; understanding systemic risks, including climate- and biodiversity-related risks. 
• Knowledge of energy, transport, or nature-based infrastructure is a strong advantage. 
• Experience in workshop facilitation and co-creation of research products is a strong advantage. 
• Experience in interdisciplinary work is a strong advantage. 
• Ability to work autonomously. 
• Excellent organizational and planning skills. 
• Excellent communication and writing skills in English for technical as well as non-technical audiences. 
• Knowledge of French is an advantage. 

Only those eligible to work in Switzerland will be considered (Swiss nationality, Swiss C, B or G work permits, or EU/EFTA European nationality). 

Closing Date: August 30, 2021