Center for Social and Economic Progress (CSEP) is looking for a Research Assistant or Analyst to work in ongoing and proposed research in the Energy, Natural Resources and Sustainability group across various studies and topics, some of which include:

1. Future Electricity systems (grid, markets, etc.)
2. The balance of supply options (RE, coal, other) with Demand
3. Clean Tech (EVs, Smart Grids, RE, etc.)
4. Social contract of energy (equity, sustainability, etc.)

The Research Assistant position is for candidates with 0-2 years of job experience, ideally with a Masters degree, but exceptional candidates with a Bachelors degree will also be considered. For Research Analysts, the candidate should have more than two years of energy related experience with a Masters degree, ideally undertaking research and analysis.

KEY FUNCTIONS

Analyst’s responsibilities span three major threads of effort:

• Specific research and analysis for selected studies
• General and supporting research for multiple studies
• Support for vertical efforts spanning events, coordination with stakeholders, publications, etc.

The primary function of the RA will be to support quantitative and qualitative analysis and research related to highly disaggregated electricity and distribution company (DISCOM) data. This will include gathering, cleaning and processing of data, and using statistical methods and tools to answer a set of technical and policy questions.

This position requires a basic grasp on the nature of power sector data, and analytical contribution to related work-streams as mentioned above. He/she will be expected to present their findings in high-level fora both within and outside CSEP, and solicit and act on received feedback. He/she will also support scholars and the organisation in administrative and research capacity through organising workshops, conferences and assisting with other engagements.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS

A base list of desired skills and background includes:

• Masters Degree in Engineering, Economics, Statistics, or allied domains or Bachelors Degree with domain relevant work experience. For exceptional candidates, the minimum work experience requirement can be relaxed.
• 0-2 years of experience for Research Assistant and more than 2 years of experience for Research Analyst in conducting statistical research and working on large datasets (especially unstructured/heterogeneous/incomplete data sets). Previous experience in the power sector will be advantageous.
• Ability to work independently and communicate effectively.
• High degree of proficiency in statistical packages and MS Office.
• Good writing skills are essential.
• Ability to coordinate, work across domains. and deliver quality outputs on-time.

To apply, please email your resume, a cover letter, and a writing sample (in single file as a .pdf) to hr@csep.org with the subject line: Research Assistant/Analyst, Energy, Natural Resources and Sustainability.

The position will be open until at least 20 February 2021, but will be evaluated on a rolling basis – you’re encouraged to apply early. Due to the high volume of applications we receive, only the candidates selected for interviews will be contacted.