Full-time or part-time Researcher, Energy Efficiency Policy Analyst

The Center for Climate Change and Sustainable Energy Policy (3CSEP) at Central European University, Budapest, is looking to hire a junior researcher.* The researcher will work on a project to aid the development of an online tool and associated handbooks to assist decision makers in creating policy packages for energy efficiency in buildings. The project will involve developing an existing pilot tool, as well as adopting and testing the tool and handbooks in two African cities.

The tasks

The project will be a follow-up study done by 3CSEP in 2009 for the United Nations Environmental Programme. This study developed an online Quick Scan Tool that compares different policy tools for increasing energy efficiency in buildings according to their effectiveness in emission reduction, cost-effectiveness, and other criteria.

The applicant

We are looking for applicants with a background in energy efficiency, engineering, economics, public policy or related subjects. Applicants with the following knowledge and skills are encouraged to apply.

• Strong analytical skills, including experience in policy analysis (previous experience with impact assessments or cost-benefit analysis is beneficial)
• Ability to apply social research methods
• Good knowledge of energy efficiency policies is an advantage
• Knowledge/experience in developing countries
• French literacy is a strong advantage
• Effective writing and communication skills in English are a prerequisite

The researcher will be based in Budapest. Successful candidates will have the ability to work effectively in a team, share and combine tasks and meet tight deadlines. There will be a need to constantly liaise with the different partners involved in the project.

The work will begin immediately and take place until approximately June 2012. The initial contract is for a fixed-term, but the possibility exists the contract may be extended. The share of time spent on the project is based on project needs as well as the availability of the applicant, but varies between part-time and full-time during the contract period. Furthermore, the position may be combined with other project tasks at the 3CSEP, depending on interest as well as the background, experience and performance of the candidate. Pay is commensurate with experience and share of time spent on the project. The expected pay will range from €1,100 – €1,600 per month for a full-time junior researcher. CEU is an equal opportunity employer.

Please send a cover letter describing your motivation, relevant skills and availability along with a CV to Dr. Michael LaBelle as soon as possible, but no later than close of business on August 5, 2011, at the following email address: positions@ceu.hu. Evaluation of applications will start immediately, therefore early application is highly recommended.

*It is possible to apply at the same time for other 3CSEP research positions. This should be stated in the cover letter.