Communications and Research Assistant, Ocean Program

Job Summary

In this role, based out of the World Resources Institute UK office, you will help plan and promote an international event in early Summer and assist in research and communications to support the team day-to-day. You will contribute research and writing to an ongoing project to track the progress of the 14 countries of the Ocean Panel in creating a sustainable ocean economy. You will also be responsible for helping to develop messaging and content to support the promotion of the Ocean Panel.

Position start date – As soon as possible. Position end date – 30th September 2021

This position is remote due to COVID-19, but will be based at WRI’s office in London, UK once restrictions have lifted. 

Job Responsibilities

Research (50%)

• Synthesize current research and trends related to the Ocean Panel’s portfolio
• Update bank of key statistics and findings
• Track upcoming publications and speaking engagements
• Assist in researching and writing a short publication that will track the commitments of the Ocean Panel member countries
• Assist with report production (such as working with copyeditors and identifying photos for reports)

Communications (30%)

• Support content creation for public engagement plans
• Support with the drafting of opinion pieces, blogs or a blog series, PowerPoint presentations and briefings to promote the work of the Ocean Panel
• Summarize technical research into key messages that are easily understood by external audiences
• Support various forms of communication, such as social media, web content, narrative development and other influence tools

Administration (20%)

• Organizational support with workshops, conferences and other event related items
• Assist in preparing event materials, such as key messages and talking points
• Identify opportunities (such as external events) where the findings of the Ocean Panel’s work could be promoted

Job Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required
• Have an interest in the environment, particularly the ocean
• A desire to learn about how we can make the ocean economy more sustainable
• A skilled researcher who is able to complete tasks quickly and with a high level of accuracy
• Basic social media skills, specifically Twitter
• Highly organized, detail-oriented with the ability to manage multiple projects at the same time
• Strong communication skills, including written and oral communications

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

Program Overview

The Ocean Program works to catalyze ambitious ocean action around the world by building on cutting-edge research and thought leadership. The High Level Panel for Sustainable Ocean Economy is a unique initiative of 14 serving world leaders building momentum towards a sustainable ocean economy, where effective protection, sustainable production and equitable prosperity go hand in hand.

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.