"Associate Research Scholar"

The Climate School at Columbia University is accepting applications for an Associate Research Scholar. This position will collaborate closely with the Director and Research Staff of the Columbia Center on Sustainable Investment to carry out the Center’s applied research on the laws, policies, and practices influencing international investment, as well as its connection to sustainable development and human rights. The incumbent will contribute to ongoing projects and research related to the role and governance of investment in the realization of sustainable development. Specifically, this position will contribute to research and analysis of international investment policy and legal frameworks, and alternative policies and practices related to international investment.

This position also supports CCSI’s technical advisory work with select governments, companies, and civil society organizations. The incumbent will contribute to ongoing projects, including through project and advisory work, desk research, stakeholder consultations, organizing and facilitating events and trainings, maintaining contact with collaborators, and helping to develop materials for publications, among other possible activities. Requires a high degree of initiative and independent judgment.

Research and writing responsibilities include: Conducting literature reviews, gathering data, doing interviews, and conducting legal or policy analysis; mapping the institutional, policy, and stakeholder landscape relevant to specific Center initiatives and goals; collaborating with external leaders, practitioners and scholars, including Government partners of CCSI; designing and organizing research-oriented conferences, seminars, trainings and workshops; working on the various publications, databases and other resources of the Center; writing papers, case studies and reports on center projects.

Minimum Qualifications: PhD, SJD, JD or LLM in Economics, Law, Development, political science, or other related field, and relevant experience. Significant demonstrated prior experience with the following type of work: drafting guidance documents, reports, academic papers, and other materials related to investment governance and policy; undertaking consultations and interviews with a range of experts, practitioners, policymakers, and advocates working on these issues; presenting research at key conferences and gatherings for policymakers; and preparing and delivering trainings related to these topics. Deep knowledge concerning investment governance, including investor-state dispute settlement, and strong awareness of the most recent developments in this space. At least 5 years of prior experience engaging with government officials and other thought leaders in the investment governance space. Must be willing and able to travel. This position also requires willingness to learn new areas and to work in a highly interdisciplinary, flexible, and dynamic environment. Excellent interpersonal, organization, research and communication skills required as well as initiative, motivation and ability to think strategically.

Preferred Qualifications: Proficiency in a second language preferred.

Columbia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran.