Position Title: Science Policy Analyst The Terrestrial Carbon Group project, housed at the H. John Heinz III Center for Science, Economics and the Environment in Washington, DC, seeks a Science Policy Analyst (12 month position with possibility of renewal pending funding).
Terrestrial carbon (trees, soil, peat, etc) is a critical untapped element of the climate change response that could provide up to 25% of the solution. The Terrestrial Carbon Group (http://www.terrestrialcarbon.org/) has proposed a system to credibly include terrestrial carbon in developing nations in the international response to climate change using carbon markets. The Science Policy Analyst will be accountable for undertaking scientific analysis relevant to the Terrestrial Carbon Group proposal, both alone and with partner organisations. Primary tasks will include: Developing parameters for categorizing tradable and protected terrestrial carbon and a project methodology for the Terrestrial Carbon Groups proposed approach Creating a policy approach for phasing in various terrestrial carbon pools under a comprehensive framework under the UNFCCC response to climate change Working with partners to write options papers on: (1) monitoring, reporting and verification requirements under different scenarios for including terrestrial carbon in the climate change solution (eg, RED, REDD, REDD+, LULUCF, AFOLU), and (2) the overall requirements under different scenarios and the consequences for certain criteria of choosing the different scenarios Supporting and managing the production of a biodiversity & REDD analysis and policy brief to demonstrate if a climate focused REDD mechanism will deliver significant biodiversity and conservation outcomes Analysing key scientific gaps in relation to terrestrial carbon, including in soil carbon, and working with partners to develop a program of work to fill the gaps The Science Policy Analyst will also provide key support functions for the project team and external partners, such as Tracking emerging policy issues and key players in international policy dialogues about climate change, agriculture, forestry, etc. Preparing background information for team members meetings with decision-makers and decision-influencers in government, academia, civil society and the private sector Engaging and managing consultants as required to undertake parts of the program of work and strategy Undertaking scientific and general policy analysis as required The Science Policy Analyst will also contribute to strategic communications by: Initiating, attending and presenting at meetings, workshops, roundtables, and conferences to disseminate information about terrestrial carbon and full carbon accounting Writing and disseminating articles, presentations, and papers on the Terrestrial Carbon Groups approach, on scientific and other policy analysis, and on terrestrial carbon and full carbon accounting Reporting to the Director of Mitigation Programs, working closely with the Director of the Terrestrial Carbon Group project and supporting other team members with their programs of work as required, the Science Policy Analyst will be dynamic and flexible to respond to developments in international negotiations and requests from partners. Requirements  Higher degree or comparable experience in science with a rich understanding of biodiversity principles  Excellent quantitative and qualitative analytical skills and attention to detail  Excellent written and oral communication skills (including fluency in English)  Ability to draft and review written materials for technical and non-technical audiences  Ability to flexibly lead and support multiple projects on tight deadlines with experience in managing consultants  Advanced interpersonal skills and experience in working as a largely autonomous member of a highly skilled and geographically dispersed team To apply, please send a resume and cover letter to Christine Negra, Director of Mitigation Programs, at [email protected].
