Research Associate, Sussex Sustainability Research Programme
Job Title: Research Associate, Sussex Sustainability Research Programme
School: Global Studies, University of Sussex
Location: Arts C/Chichester. Hybrid or remote work can be considered
Responsible to: Prof Joseph Alcamo (Director Sussex Sustainability Research Programme; Prof Environmental Systems Science, Geography Dept.)
Time period of position: 7 January 2024 – 31 March 2025, 0.5 – 0.6 FTE
Key contacts: SSRP Directorate and Secretariat Staff, SSRP Research Fellows.
Role description: This is a research support role suitable for PhD students. Post-holders will be expected to contribute to the work of the research team, by conducting desk research and liaising with Research Fellows to collate data.
CONTEXT
The SSRP has been commissioned by an external organisation to develop a report that showcases between 10 and 15 synergy drivers. Synergy drivers are policies and measures that advance two or more Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at the same time. This report is intended for wide distribution to support efforts to accelerate the achievement of the SDGs. The report will summarise evidence of synergy drivers and introduce the idea to a wide stakeholder base.
The report will have the following objectives:
· To make policymakers and other stakeholders aware of “synergy drivers” as an option for accelerating achievement of the SDGs.
· To present new evidence and insights on the potential of fostering synergy drivers, with a clear set of short case studies covering a range of SDGs.
· To provide information on best practice for synergy driver policies and measures.
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES
You will engage in the development of this high-quality report that summarises this evidence and introduces the idea of synergy drivers relevant to policy makers and other stakeholders under the direction of the Director of the SSRP and in collaboration with key University of Sussex faculty and professional services, for an external client.
INDICATIVE PERFORMANCE CRITERIA
1. Research & Scholarship
1.1 Ability to contribute to the preparation of research reports for external bodies.
1.2 Ability to conduct independent research and liaise with key internal stakeholders to generate data as appropriate to the task.
1.3 Ability to work and integrate with an interdisciplinary research team.
1.4 Continually update knowledge and understanding in field or specialty and engage in continuous professional development.
2. Role-specific duties
2.1 Review global literature and policy documents relevant to proposed project. Produce summaries of key data from literature and documents. Produce drafts of some sections of report.
2.2 Liaise with key stakeholders to collate data on synergy drivers, including organising joint and individual meetings to get their input and feedback.
2.3 Liaise with relevant professional service teams (e.g. school research office, SSRP, secretariat, finance).
2.4 Participate and contribute to research team meetings and take minutes where necessary.
PERSON SPECIFICATION
ESSENTIAL CRITERIA
1. Currently a doctoral student
2. Evidence of engagement in high-quality research activity.
3. Excellent presentation skills, with the ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
4. Ability to work individually on own initiative and without close supervision, and as part of a team.
5. Ability to exercise a degree of innovation and creative problem-solving.
6. Excellent organisational and administrative skills.
7. Ability to prioritise and meet deadlines.
8. Excellent IT skills.
This Job Description sets out current duties of the post that may vary from time to time without changing the general character of the post or level of responsibility entailed.
To apply submit a CV and letter of interest indicating your suitability for the role to training@chase.ac.uk by 2 January 2025. Interviews will take place on 6 or 7 January with the successful candidate expected to start shortly after.