Corporate Decarbonization Research Assistant

Corporate Decarbonization Research Assistant

Position Title:

Corporate Decarbonization Research Assistant

Position Number:

Vacancy : S027807

Employment Type:

Full‑Time, Temporary

Hours per week: 40

Work Schedule:

Monday – Friday, 8:30am – 5:00pm; times may vary

Data‑Driven Enviro Lab is seeking a temporary research assistant to contribute to our work on corporate decarbonization. The role is designed for a researcher with an interest in corporate climate action, decarbonization strategies, and the role of businesses in advancing the net‑zero transition. Candidates who are excited to work with leading companies and use real‑world collaboration to refine, stress‑test, and strengthen research are especially encouraged to apply.

The Corporate Decarbonization Research Assistant will investigate how corporations contribute to decarbonization both within their own operations and across the broader systems in which they operate, including examining how companies shape climate outcomes through governance, procurement, investment, innovation, and engagement with policymakers. The position involves close collaboration with the lab PI, team members, and external partners. The assistant will demonstrate professional collaboration, proactive communication, and project management skills, and combine academic rigor with practical engagement with decision‑makers.

• Investigate corporate contributions to decarbonization in operations and system‑wide contexts.
• Examine corporate governance, procurement, investment, innovation, and policy engagement related to climate outcomes.
• Collaborate closely with the principal investigator, lab members, and external collaborators.
• Exercise proactive communication and professional collaboration in an interdisciplinary environment.
• Apply project management skills to support research initiatives.
• Combine academic rigor with practical engagement to influence real‑world decision‑making.

• Bachelor’s degree in a discipline related to the assignment, or equivalent combination of education and experience. All degrees must be from accredited institutions.
• Preferred degree in Environmental Studies/Policy, Organizational Studies, Management, Business, Political Science, Sociology, Economics, or a closely related field.
• Experience conducting research on corporate sustainability, climate governance, or related frameworks.
• Familiarity with environmental and/or climate governance frameworks and evaluation criteria.
• Ability to think critically, work independently and in interdisciplinary teams.
• Background in corporate climate action, CSR, ESG reporting, carbon accounting, or net‑zero emissions planning.

• Curriculum Vitae / Resume
• Cover Letter
• List of References

None specified.

• Please select the response below that best describes your experience/education for the position:
  • Bachelor's, Master's or Doctoral degree in a discipline related to the area of assignment.
  • Associate's degree in a discipline related to the area of assignment and 2 years related experience.
  • Combination of related post‑high school education and experience to equal at least 4 years of experience in a closely related field.
  • High School diploma/GED and at least 4 years of related experience.
  • Did not complete high school but have a combination of high school education and experience to equal at least 8 years.
  • None of the above.

The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. Protected veterans and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Contact:
Office of Human Resources at (919) 843‑2300 or employment.