Research Analyst Level II, Climate Policy Lab

Overview

The Fletcher School is the United States' first professional graduate school of international affairs. Since 1933 Fletcher's multi-disciplinary education in international relations, law, and business, has prepared the world's leaders to become innovative problem-solvers in government, private sector, and non-governmental organizations. The Fletcher School seeks to fulfill its mission in the most environmentally sensible way possible.

The Climate Policy Lab (CPL), housed within the Center for International Environment and Resource Policy (CIERP) at The Fletcher School, conducts applied, policy-relevant research to evaluate which climate policies work, which do not, and why. CPL combines quantitative analysis, comparative policy research, and close engagement with policymakers to inform climate action globally.

What You'll Do

This is a one-year limited term position. This is a grant funded position and is not eligible for severance pay.

Climate Policy Lab is seeking a Research Analyst to provide intellectual leadership across multiple Climate Policy Lab research initiatives. This role is central to co-developing research questions and policy frameworks with CPL researchers and leadership. Working closely with the CPL Co-Directors, the Research Analyst will translate empirical findings into actionable insights for policymakers, funders, and international stakeholders. The ideal candidate combines strong research capacity, demonstrated expertise in global climate policy, and ability to mentor junior colleagues. This is a full-time, grant-funded position for one year.

• Research Design & Analysis
  Designs and conducts research projects that fit well into overall CPL strategy and direction.
  Conducts literature reviews and tracks emerging methodologies or data releases.
  Collects data and performs analysis.
  Provides quantitative and qualitative support as needed to the continuation of CPL research already underway.
• Writing & Communication
  Creates outlines and finalizes drafts for scientific writing and publications, including journal articles, project deliverables, grant reports, and new grant proposals.
  Produces data visualizations, tables, and figures for technical and non-technical audiences.
  Represents CPL with sponsors of research, as requested by Director.
  Provides briefings to sponsors, governments, or other entities on research results.
• Project & Program Management
  Develop research goals, analytical strategies, and modeling frameworks with project leadership.
  Supports the Director with quality control of research by helping to scope major research projects, determine research methods, identify data sources, and oversee the actual conduct of research.
  Manages end-to-end research workflow. Offers guidance on workflow steps and data collection and analysis.
  Coordinates timelines and deliverables across research, modeling, and publication workstreams.
  Prepares internal and external summaries, briefings, and funder updates; support grant progress reporting.
• Collaboration & Mentorship
  Train, and supervise student researchers and interns.
  Review coding, documentation, and data quality practices.
  Coordinate collaborative research activities with internal teams and external partners.
  Provide mentorship and guidance to junior colleagues through review and feedback of their writing, research & conference plans.

What We're Looking For

Basic Requirements:
Knowledge and experience typically acquired by:
2-5 years of relevant research experience, ideally in quantitative or applied policy research.
Experience preparing results for publication and presenting analytical work to external audiences.
Strong understanding of data management, cleaning, and integration from multiple large-scale sources (survey data, open data, proprietary datasets).
Comfort interpreting results for non-technical audiences and translating outputs into policy-relevant insights.

Preferred Qualifications:
Master's degree in economics, data science, computer science, statistics, mathematics, quantitative social science, or related field
Experience in mentoring and providing guidance to junior colleagues.
Exceptional analytical writing and communication skills.
Strong attention to detail, organizational ability, and time management.
Proven ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines.
Fluency in English required; additional language skills desirable.
Time-management: Proven ability to handle several different projects/tasks simultaneously, complete assigned tasks, and meet deadlines.
Collaboration, attention to detail, troubleshooting ability, and project management experience.
Interest in maintaining a high degree of technical competence by reading scientific journals, attending professional workshops and conferences, and being aware of trends in the field.