Position Description
We are seeking a creative and energetic team player to help us think about and integrate cutting-edge social science into our work. While the Fellow may engage on related threats like pandemics and water security, the major focus will be on supporting the work of the Climate Advocacy Lab. The Lab is a collaborative space that brings together advocates, social scientists and data experts to share best practices and tools for engaging the public on climate change. The Fellow will help shape and conduct experimental research in U.S.-based climate and clean energy advocacy campaigns. The Fellow will also keep track of new research, methods, and tools used in the areas of behavioral and cognitive science, communications and public engagement, including summarizing and translating relevant research for non-expert network partners. The Fellow will identify and lead original research that aligns with the Skoll Global Threats Fund’s climate efforts and also serves the Fellow’s professional trajectory. The Fellow will report to the Director, Policy and Communications.
Primary duties and responsibilities
Working closely with the Director of Policy and Communications and the Climate Advocacy Lab team, the Fellow will:
Provide content expertise in social science and other tools related to campaign analytics, public engagement, and persuasion.
Serve as a key point of contact for the social science community within the Climate Advocacy Lab.
Lead efforts to integrate experimentation into public outreach efforts, and help build and curate an evidence base for effective climate and clean energy campaign and communication strategies.
Coordinate, assess, and summarize research efforts on campaign analytics, polling and experimentation carried out by consultants and grantees.
Conduct other research related to climate and clean energy engagement as needed and identified by Skoll Global Threats Fund and others.
Knowledge, skills, and assets
A PhD in a social science, cognitive science, decision support, or related discipline.
Significant expertise in quantitative social science methodologies and tools such as randomized controlled experiments, survey development, and polling.
Demonstrated experience applying quantitative tools to public engagement efforts or political campaigns.
7-10 years of relevant experience.
Familiarity with statistical programming languages such as R, and statistical packages such as Stata, SPSS, and SAS.
Excellent research and analytical skills.
Systems thinker; experience working with interdisciplinary teams.
Knowledge of climate, clean energy, and sustainability issues.
Excellent written and verbal, presentation, and teamwork skills.
Strong attention to detail and strong organizing and project management skills.
Excellent interpersonal skills with positive attitude; desire and ability to work in a collaborative team environment.
Ability to problem-solve and find creative solutions.
Demonstrated competence to assess priorities and concurrently manage a variety of activities effectively.
Self-starter with the ability to work independently.
Ability to handle highly confidential information with discretion.
Employment Status
This is a full-time exempt term-limited position for one year. Compensation is commensurate with experience. Benefits include health and paid parking or a transit subsidy.
How to apply
The Skoll Global Threats Fund is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply. For immediate consideration, please send your resume and a cover letter expressing your alignment with the mission and your fit for the role to jobs@skollglobalthreats.org. Application deadline is September 4, 2015.