Analyst, Global Research Methane and Analytics

With world attention on both the environment and the economy, Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) is where policymakers and business leaders turn for win-win solutions. By focusing on strong science, uncommon partnerships and market-based approaches, we tackle urgent threats with practical solutions. We are one of the world’s largest environmental organizations, with more than two million members and a staff of approximately 700 scientists, economists, policy experts, and other professionals around the world. We operate in 22 geographies with unique projects running across four programs. You will be part of a vibrant workplace where innovation and results are a way of life.

EDF envisions a world in which people from all backgrounds and experiences feel connected to the environmental challenges we face and are engaged in creating durable, equitable solutions. We seek talented candidates who share our Core Values of Respect, Results, Innovation, Optimism, and Integrity, and support our Commitment to Diversity. 

Energy Transition Overview

The goal of the Energy Transition Team is to bend the curve on greenhouse gas emissions from oil and gas production and use by 2030, while meeting the world's energy needs cleanly and equitably. We are achieving this through a defined set of objectives targeted at 1) reducing emissions from oil and gas production, delivery, and use, and 2) reducing demand for oil and gas in power generation, transportation, buildings, and industry. To achieve our goal, we seek reforms in law, regulation, and/or business practice through a set of strategic corporate partnerships, direct engagement with policymakers, and mobilising investor and public sentiment in favor of change. In achieving our objectives, we facilitate cutting-edge science, technical innovation, and rigorous economic and financial analysis to develop durable solutions.

EDF has embarked on an ambitious effort to drive down the use of fossil fuels in buildings and vehicles. To meet this objective, staff working in offices around the world have developed a set of interconnected strategies for global action.  The four pillars of these strategies include 1) creating new analytical tools to support clean technology adoption, and modernised laws, policies and markets, 2) advocating to improve policy, and build awareness and momentum, 3) working directly with private and public companies, and 4) participating in formal and informal stakeholder venues.

At this time, this position can be based remotely in The Netherlands, Germany, and Belgium. You will work with international institutions, many of which are in Europe and Asia, and you must be comfortable with flexible hours and occasional travel.

Overall Function

The Analyst will conduct data analysis and literature reviews, maintain models and databases, and develop reports and other means of disseminating findings and information. This critical work supports EDF's energy work in analysing emissions from the oil and gas industry, as well as our advocacy at the state, federal, and international levels for more sustainable natural gas regulation. The Methane Analyst, Research & Analytics reports to the Director Research & Analytics, Energy Transition. EDF is a collaborative culture, and you will be working with colleagues across our regions and functions, and you must be adept at collaborating across time zones and our matrix structure.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform complex analyses of datasets on emissions from oil and gas facilities and activity, such as the IEA Methane Tracker, data from the European Commission or specific countries, and information from other sources or stakeholders.
• Analyse policy pathways and progress toward the 30X30 methane goal and other country, regional, or operator-specific methane goals or targets.
• Maintain, expand, and update EDF's models and databases used to evaluate the climate influence of natural gas leakage and mitigation scenarios.
• Analyse regulatory proposals and perform comparative analysis of existing regulations from various jurisdictions.
• Develop analytics in support of regulatory advocacy, including recommended control strategies, emission reduction efficacy and cost benefit analyses.
• Research methane abatement technologies, their costs and optimal uses.
• Perform literature reviews and research, analysing and synthesising information on a variety of topics to inform and support EDF's oil and gas advocacy efforts.
• Compile and keep current with scientific and gray literature on methane and other air emissions from natural gas systems; synthesise and disseminate that information for EDF scientists, economists, attorneys, and policy specialists.
• Actively develop reports, factsheets, and blog posts for general audiences on the topics of focus.
• Represent EDF in meetings with regulators, industry representatives, NGO partners and other stakeholders.
• Support other "rapid response" and/or project development efforts on an as-needed basis.
• Apply excellent organisation, communication, and planning skills in preparing correspondence and reports, responding to requests for information, and helping to coordinate activities among staff members.
• Participates in advancing EDF DEI goals in which people from all backgrounds and experiences feel connected, included, and empowered to address the environmental and organisational challenges in alignment with EDF values.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in the natural sciences, engineering, or environmental science preferred, or equivalent professional experience. 
• Relevant work experience in environmental science, energy policy, policy analysis, environmental advocacy, or related fields. Substantial internship experience or relevant academic coursework may be considered as an alternative to this work experience.
• Strong quantitative analysis skills and strong computer efficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint); experience in performing rigorous analysis in support of highly visible work.
• Experience with a database software, geo-spatial analysis using ArcGIS, programming skills, and advanced knowledge of Excel preferred.
• Knowledge about environmental issues associated with the oil and gas industry and/or experience with air emissions issues or data.
• Familiarity with a diverse array of regulatory frameworks and processes.
• Exceptional personal organisation, attention to detail, and ability to multitask.
• Ability to work independently and to support a multi-disciplinary team, using independent judgement required to plan, prioritise, and organise diversified workload.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, ability to summarise and translate scientific information appropriately for a variety of audiences, from senior scientists to the lay public.
• Demonstrates self-awareness, cultural competency and inclusivity, and ability to work with colleagues and stakeholders across diverse cultures and backgrounds.
• Fluency in English and at least one other language - French, Spanish, German, Arabic, Japanese, Mandarin, or Russian preferred.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis and/or air dispersion modeling a plus.
• You must have the right to live and work in the EU when applying.