UNPAID Volunteer - Principal​/Senior Research Officers; Energy & Environment) UNPAID Volunteer

UNPAID VOLUNTEER – Principal/Senior Research Officers (Energy & Environment)

PLEASE NOTE THIS IS AN UNPAID VOLUNTEERING ROLE

Role title: Principal/Senior Research Officers (Energy & Environment)

Role nature: Volunteer

Location: Home-based

The Blockchain & Climate Institute (BCI) is an international volunteer‑led think tank supporting and advocating for the application of blockchain technology in the global fight against climate change.

We are looking for passionate and senior research volunteers to join the Energy & Environment Research Division (Research Division II) at BCI as Senior/Principal Research Officers, specializing in either Energy or Environmental Policy.

We are seeking professionals who take a methodological approach to their work, possess strong research and leadership skills, and have a passion for stakeholder engagement and establishing strategic partnerships to progress BCI’s core mission. We are particularly interested in candidates with research experience in biodiversity (e.g., forest conservation), circular economy, renewable energy, and/or climate adaptation, supporting the Director of Research (Energy and Environment).

• Conduct independent primary and secondary research in areas such as renewable energy, carbon trading, biodiversity and conservation, climate change adaptation, natural resource management, blockchain technology, and artificial intelligence, especially for developing‑country governments.
• Analyse both quantitative and qualitative data using suitable methodologies, draw appropriate conclusions, and present findings clearly and concisely.
• Deliver high‑quality research outputs, such as written reports, concept notes, briefing materials, and presentations.
• Provide research guidance and mentoring to Research Officers/Senior Research Officers within the Energy & Environment Research Division.
• Provide support in project management, divisional administration tasks, and recruitment duties to the Director of Research (Energy and Environment).

Skills and abilities:

• Excellent communication and leadership skills, including the ability to develop effective working relationships, work flexibly across professional and operational boundaries, and communicate effectively and professionally with internal and external stakeholders at all levels.
• Strong English writing skills and the ability to tailor communications to the intended audience.
• Excellent research skills and a methodological and detail‑oriented approach.
• Strong organisational skills and ability to balance competing demands under pressure.
• Strong presentation skills and ability to present ideas appropriately and persuasively.
• Proficiency in Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish (desirable).

General and specialist knowledge:

• Demonstrable knowledge of qualitative and quantitative research methods.
• Proficiency in the use of Microsoft Office and reference management software (e.g., Mendeley, Zotero).
• Specialist knowledge relevant to the role (Energy or Environmental Policy).
• Generalist knowledge on topics central to BCI such as climate change policy, adaptation and resilience, and blockchain technology.

Education and training:

• Undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline.
• Postgraduate research degree or equivalent professional research experience.

Relevant experience:

• 10 years of experience in designing, planning, facilitating, and conducting independent/academic research.
• Experience in supervising colleagues and leading projects.
• Experience working in a target‑driven role with tight deadlines.
• Experience building constructive relationships with stakeholders.
• Experience working independently and with teams to drive forward projects using one's own initiative.

Blockchain and other emerging technologies, climate change, and sustainability are hot topics headlining media outlets, dominating conferences & events, and gaining increasing traction in research and pilot projects. BCI serves as an expert platform to help governments, inter‑governmental and regional organizations, and relevant corporates negotiate the complex landscape of emerging technologies for environmental good. Our expertise is cemented by researching, identifying, and analysing applications of emerging technologies so that informed decisions can be made by stakeholders in the climate change and action network.

Benefits you will get from volunteering with BCI include:

• You will hone or learn new skills including research, presentation, writing, and professional etiquette.
• Your mind will be mentally stimulated, providing you with a sense of purpose.
• You will advance and boost your professional career by helping you make professional connections and giving you real‑world experience at the intersection between climate and emerging technologies.
• You will develop long‑lasting professional relationships; people who come together to make the world a better place forge a strong connection.