Young Researchers Program 2025 – Research Assistant at WRI
Background & Job Description
The Young Researchers Program 2025, also known as the Wahana Riset Indonesia (Young Scientists Incubator), is an initiative by WRI Indonesia aimed at nurturing a new generation of young environmental researchers. This program provides an opportunity for young researchers to conduct in-depth studies on environmental issues and contribute to high-quality research that influences sustainable development policies.
As the third batch of this initiative, WRI Indonesia is once again opening its doors to young researchers passionate about environmental sustainability and policy-making. The first two batches, which took place between 2017 and 2019, resulted in 11 scientific publications, 4 international conference presentations, 6 policy notes, and 2 books.
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For 2025, the main research theme is “Reimagining Resilient Coastal Cities in Indonesia.” Participants will contribute to the development of research products within six key focus areas:
- Urban Coastal Climate Vulnerability and Resilience
- Coastal Livelihood and Food Security
- Sustainable Aquaculture & Marine Plastic Waste
- Air Pollution in Coastal Areas
- Climate Action (Adaptation and Mitigation) Planning and Implementation
- Urban Transport and Mobility
Indonesia, as the world’s largest archipelagic nation, faces significant environmental challenges due to rapid urbanization and climate change. Over 58% of the Indonesian population resides in coastal cities, making them highly vulnerable to climate-related risks, including coastal flooding, rising sea levels, and extreme temperatures. Without innovative, data-driven solutions, these environmental threats could have severe socio-economic consequences, particularly for vulnerable communities dependent on coastal ecosystems for their livelihoods.
WRI Indonesia has been at the forefront of developing practical solutions through partnerships with governments, businesses, civil society organizations, and international institutions. The Young Researchers Program 2025 is designed to support WRI’s global vision of creating climate-resilient and livable urban environments with equitable access to jobs and services.
Research Questions
The overarching research question for the 2025 cohort is:
“How can Indonesia’s coastal cities enhance climate resilience in the face of rapid urbanization and environmental change?”
To explore this, research assistants will work within one of WRI Indonesia’s research clusters to investigate sub-themes related to climate resilience, environmental policy, and urban sustainability.
Tasks
Under the supervision of WRI Indonesia’s research team, research assistants will be responsible for:
Research and Data Collection
- Conducting literature reviews on relevant environmental and climate resilience topics.
- Collecting qualitative and quantitative data from various sources, including government reports, academic journals, and field studies.
- Assisting in the design of surveys and interviews to gather primary research data.
- Analyzing case studies of climate resilience initiatives in Indonesia and globally.
Data Analysis & Report Writing
- Conducting data analysis using statistical and geospatial tools.
- Assisting in the development of policy briefs, reports, and white papers.
- Writing and co-authoring research articles for scientific journals and policy publications.
- Preparing reports on data interpretation and findings to support policy recommendations.
Stakeholder Engagement & Networking
- Attending conferences, webinars, and policy dialogues related to environmental research.
- Coordinating with government agencies, NGOs, and research institutions.
- Engaging in knowledge-sharing sessions and presentations within WRI Indonesia’s network.
Communication & Outreach
- Assisting in writing op-eds, blog posts, and media articles related to the research theme.
- Creating visual data presentations for reports and social media outreach.
- Supporting WRI Indonesia in organizing training sessions and workshops.
Young Researchers Program 2025 – Research Assistant at WRI
Qualifications
Education and Certification
Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree in one of the following fields:
- Environmental Science
- Climate Studies
- Urban Planning
- Marine Science
- Public Policy
- Sustainable Development
- Economics (related to environmental research)
- Engineering (related to urban resilience and climate adaptation)
A master’s degree or ongoing postgraduate study in a relevant field is considered an advantage.
Experience
- Minimum 2 years of research experience (including university research projects, internships, or part-time research roles).
- At least 1 year of professional experience in a related field.
- Experience working on climate change, sustainability, or environmental policy projects.
- Experience in data collection, analysis, and visualization tools (e.g., GIS, R, Python, SPSS, or STATA) is a plus.
Skills and Competencies
- Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
- Ability to work independently and in a team.
- Excellent writing skills in English and Indonesian (minimum TOEFL score of 550 or IELTS score of 6.0 is preferred).
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, data analysis software, and research tools.
- Strong interpersonal skills to collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
- High organizational capacity and ability to meet deadlines.
- A strong commitment to environmental sustainability and climate resilience.
Location Requirements
- Must be based in Jakarta, Indonesia, or willing to relocate.
- Must have legal authorization to work in Indonesia.
Additional Information
Performance Expectations
- Delivering research outputs on time and at a high standard.
- Adhering to WRI Indonesia’s research ethics and data confidentiality policies.
- Demonstrating commitment to high-quality, evidence-based research.
Deliverables
- Co-authoring WRI knowledge products and policy reports.
- Producing a data analysis report based on research findings.
- Writing opinion pieces (Op-Eds) for national and international media outlets.
- Contributing to international research collaborations and publications.
Contract and Compensation
- Position Type: Individual Consultant (Part-time, Limited-term).
- Compensation: Daily rate-based, with a maximum of 18 working days per month.
- Competitive remuneration, based on experience and skills.
Benefits
- Mentorship and training opportunities with expert researchers.
- Hands-on experience with data analysis and policy writing.
- Networking opportunities with global and national stakeholders.
- BPJS coverage and travel insurance for official duties.
- A diverse and inclusive workplace committed to equity and sustainability.
How to Apply
Candidates must submit the following documents:
- Cover Letter (max. 2 pages) – Indicate your motivation, preferred research topic, and why you are a good fit for the role.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Letter of Recommendation from a previous employer, academic advisor, or university professor.
- Short Writing Sample (max. 2 pages) on a relevant research topic.
- Degree Certificate & Supporting Certifications.
- English Proficiency Test Results (if available).
- Links to Writing Samples (if applicable).
Applications must be submitted through WRI’s official career portal before March 14, 2025, at 17:00 (Jakarta Time). Early applications are encouraged as the position may close sooner if suitable candidates are identified.
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