Research Fellow

The Asia Centre of the Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI) seeks a mid-level researcher to contribute to a rapidly-growing research cluster on disaster risk reduction in the Asia-Pacific region. Led by Dr. Frank Thomalla, the group is part of a larger institute-wide initiative entitled Transforming Development and Disaster Risk Reduction. We are seeking a social scientist who is very familiar with social science research approaches related to disaster risk reduction including vulnerability, risk, adaptation, and resilience, has good knowledge of risks posed by environmental hazards including climate change in the Asia-Pacific region, and has a keen interest in building disaster resilience within the region. We are open to candidates from any social science discipline, but are particularly interested in complementing our existing capacities by bringing in a new recruit with a background in anthropology, sociology, behavioral science, cultural studies, philosophy, or political science.

Research Fellows at SEI’s Asia Centre bring expertise in a relevant academic field. They initiate and lead creative and strategic research, and produce high-quality analytical output. They have a capacity to work in a multi-disciplinary team, in policy environments, and with overseas partners. They usually hold a PhD. However, we also accept Research Fellows with a Master’s degree and research abilities and experience equivalent to that of a PhD. Over time, Research Fellows are expected to maintain a high level of self-funding, either individually or as part of teams. They must also maintain a good publication record, and for this position we are looking for candidates who have already established a strong publication record.

Essential Criteria

• PhD or Master’s with equivalent experience in a relevant social science discipline (anthropology, sociology, behavioral science, cultural studies, philosophy, political science, geography, development studies);
• Very good knowledge of the disaster risk reduction field (e.g., institutions, practices, and governance processes);
• Good knowledge of disaster risks in the Asia-Pacific region;
• Strong publication record;
• Successful fundraising, either individually or as part of a team;
• Strong English language skills.

Desirable Criteria

Knowledge of at least one regional language.

Enquiries: Dr. Frank Thomalla (frank.thomalla @sei-international.org)