Research Analyst, Science Based Targets Initiative

Job Summary:

This position provides a unique opportunity to learn from one of our high impact initiatives to increase the ambition of the private sector to reduce GHG emissions. In this role, you will join a team of highly motivated individuals working on science-based target setting for greenhouse gases. WRI’s work on Science Based Targets is based in WRI’s Business Center. The work is performed primarily through our role in the Science based Targets initiative (SBTi).

The SBTi is a collaboration of CDP, World Resources Institute (WRI), the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), and the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) and one of the We Mean Business Coalition commitments. The initiative mobilizes companies to set science-based target setting as a way to create competitive advantage in the transition to the low-carbon economy.

This position is remote due to Covid-19, but you will be based in Washington, DC once restrictions have been lifted.

Job Responsibilities:

Research & Knowledge (80% of time required)

• Conduct a technical review of companies’ target submissions against the Science Based Targets initiative’s eligibility criteria and deliver high-quality assessment reports for SBTi’s target validation service (~75% in the first year)
• Contribute to the automation of the SBTi’s target validation service using existing or new platforms for data input, data management, and data visualization
• Help to write and update knowledge products, resources and procedures related to science-based GHG target setting (e.g. criteria, guidance, reports, briefs, data products)
• Present and represent the SBTi at internal/external meetings, conferences, events, etc.
• Assisting in developing communications material related to research such as presentations, case studies, blog posts and other communication documents
• Support advisory service projects with companies on setting science-based targets (as needed)

Administrative (20% of time required)

• Liaise with external partners and WRI colleagues across programs and countries
• Organize internal and external meetings, workshops, conferences and other outreach activities.

Job Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Sciences, Environmental or Energy Economics, Environmental Policy, Environmental Engineering or related area required
• Minimum of 3 years of full-time work experience with minimum 2 years of full-time work experience with corporate greenhouse gas management, greenhouse gas accounting, or corporate sustainability preferred
• Self-starter who is flexible to work with virtual teams and can work on numerous projects and teams simultaneously
• Strong qualitative and/or quantitative research skills including the ability to communicate complex concepts clearly, both orally and in writing, with fluency in English
• Prior experience in analyzing and writing research products
• Excellent computer skills in Microsoft Office, database management and internet research
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work with teams of individuals and colleagues
• Flexibility to travel (pending lifting of Covid-related restrictions)
• US work authorization is required for this

Potential Salary:

$59,000 – $77,000. Salary is commensurate with experience and other compensable factors.

How to Apply:

Please submit a resume with cover letter. Applicants must apply through the WRI Careers portal to be considered. 

Program Overview:

The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) is a global body enabling businesses to set ambitious emissions reductions targets in line with the latest climate science. It is focused on accelerating companies across the world to halve emissions before 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions before 2050. Science-based targets show companies how much and how quickly they need to reduce their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to prevent the worst effects of climate change.

 The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi):

Defines and promotes best practice in emissions reductions and net-zero targets in line with climate science. Provides technical assistance and expert resources to companies who set science-based targets in line with the latest climate science. Brings together a team of experts to provide companies with independent assessment and validation of targets. The SBTi is the lead partner of the Business Ambition for 1.5°C campaign. An urgent call to action from a global coalition of UN agencies, business and industry leaders, mobilizing companies to set net-zero science-based targets in line with a 1.5°C future. The change has already begun and action is gaining pace. Nearly one thousand companies worldwide are leading the transition to a net-zero economy by setting emissions reduction targets grounded in climate science through the SBTi. The initiative is a collaboration between CDP, the United Nations Global Compact, World Resources Institute (WRI) and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) and one of the We Mean Business Coalition commitments. The SBTi defines and promotes best practice in science-based target setting, offers resources and guidance to reduce barriers to adoption, and independently assesses and approves companies’ targets. www.sciencebasedtargets.org @sciencetargets

WRI Overview:

World Resources Institute (WRI) is an independent, nonprofit global research organization that turns big ideas into action at the nexus of environment, economic opportunity, and human well-being. We are working to address seven critical challenges that the world must overcome this decade in order to secure a sustainable future for people and the planet: climate change, energy, food, forests, water, sustainable cities, and the ocean.

We are passionate. We value our diversity of interests, skills, and backgrounds. We have a flexible work environment. And we share a common goal to catalyze change that will improve the lives of people. Our shared ideals are at the core of our approach. They include: integrity, innovation, urgency, independence, and respect.

The foundation of our work is delivering high-quality research, data, maps, and analysis to solve the world’s greatest environment and international development challenges and improve people’s lives. We work with leaders in government, business, and civil society to drive ambitious action and create change on the ground. Equally important, we bring together partners to develop breakthrough ideas and scale-up solutions for far-reaching, enduring impact.

We have been growing rapidly: our staff has doubled in size over the past 5 years, and our operating budget is now $150 million. Founded in 1982, WRI has a global staff of 1,000+ people with work spanning 60 countries. We have offices in Africa, Brazil, China, Europe, India, Indonesia, Mexico, and the United States, as well as a growing presence in other countries and regions.  

WRI is committed to advancing gender and social equity for human well-being in our mission and applies this principle to our organizational and programmatic practices.