Research Associate (Applied Economist ​/ Policy Researcher

Research Associate (Economic/ Policy Analyst) What We’re Looking For

We are seeking a motivated researcher with a strong background in energy and climate economics, development policy, or related public policy fields. The ideal candidate has excellent analytical and writing skills, a strategic mind, and a deep interest in green economy, regional development, and industrial policy in Oman and the wider Gulf. We also welcome candidates with experience or interest in international relations, security, foresight, or geopolitics as these areas increasingly intersect with our applied work.

The position is full-time and based in Muscat, with limited remote flexibility. You’ll work closely with our Director of the Economics & Foresight research programme as well as our planned research programme on the Dynamics of the Green Economy.

There is also potential to shape your own project stream, develop publications, and pursue academic goals alongside practical work.

This position is open to candidates at various levels:

• Candidates holding a Master’s degree with relevant research experience are welcome (an optional PhD track can be made available)
• PhD holders and postdoctoral researchers are highly encouraged to apply.
• In exceptional cases, outstanding Bachelor’s graduates with a proven track record will also be considered.

• Conduct research and contribute to policy analysis in areas such as:
  • Development planning
  • Energy and climate economics
  • Industrial policy and FDIs
  • Labour market transformation
  • Socioeconomic resilience and green growth
  • Regional stability and geoeconomics
• Support the Council’s institutional development, including:
  • Drafting policy papers and reports
  • Preparing applications for grants, tenders, and research calls
  • Supporting public outreach, workshops, and strategic dialogues
• Collaborate on research projects for public-sector clients in Oman and the GCC
• Contribute to the intellectual development of new research areas
• Engage in interdisciplinary work across sectors and ministries
• Optionally pursue an aligned PhD track or develop an academic publishing agenda

• Strong academic background in Economics, Public Policy, Political Science, or a related field (we are not looking for Engineering or Finance graduates for this position)
• Solid grounding in development economics, energy and climate policy, or institutional policy-making
• A strong background on Oman’s political and economic institutions as well as the Gulf region in general is essential
• Excellent writing skills and the ability to present complex information clearly
• Comfortable working in a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment
• Native Arabic speaker with excellent command of written and spoken English