RMI Three Cairns Fellow - Summer 2026

The RMI Three Cairns Fellow position for Summer 2026 involves supporting climate finance initiatives for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) through research and development of training materials. The role includes conducting desktop research on climate finance mechanisms, assisting with financial analysis, and contributing to reports and training sessions. This opportunity is offered by Rocky Mountain Institute, located in Denver, CO, with a focus on enhancing climate resilience and energy transitions.
Job Description: Yale School of Environment (YSE) Three Cairns Scholar - Summer 2026 Climate Finance Access Network (CFAN) & Islands Energy Program Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI) Application Deadline: Friday, March 13th at 11:59pm ET. About the Organization RMI is an independent nonprofit organization founded in 1982 that transforms global energy systems through market-driven solutions to align with a 1.5°C future. RMI works with governments, development institutions, businesses, and communities to accelerate the energy transition and strengthen climate resilience globally. Within RMI, the Islands Energy Program and the Climate Finance Access Network (CFAN) focus on Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and climate-vulnerable countries in the Caribbean, Pacific, and emerging regions. The Climate Finance Access Network (CFAN) supports developing countries in securing and structuring finance for climate investments by embedding highly trained climate finance advisors within ministries and national institutions. CFAN strengthens national capacity to develop bankable climate projects and access funding from multilateral climate funds and development partners. The Islands Energy Program supports island governments in accelerating clean energy transitions, strengthening energy security, and integrating resilience into energy planning. Project Specifics Advancing Climate Resilience in Small Island Developing States (SIDS). SIDS face disproportionate climate risks, high energy costs, and structural barriers to accessing international climate finance. While billions of dollars are pledged globally, many SIDS struggle to translate climate ambition into bankable, finance-ready projects. This project will support CFAN and the Islands Team in: Strengthening the pipeline of climate adaptation and mitigation concept notesConducting analytical research on climate finance mechanisms and related requests from regional teamsSupport reporting and documentation needs arising from r egional t eam projects , in particular in the Pacific regionSupporting development of training packages for government officials and CSOsAdvancing energy-to-adaptation integration frameworksSupport the current engagement with international and regional organizations including United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIFS) in the PacificThe Scholar will contribute to high-impact analytical and applied outputs that directly support climate project development and institutional capacity building in the Global South J ob/Research Responsibilities The Three Cairns Scholar will: Conduct desktop research on climate finance mechanisms (GCF, adaptation funds, blended finance, resilience financing instruments) and climate finance landscape of SIDSGain experience in the development of climate finance concept notes and investment briefsAssist in financial and economic analysis (e.g., high-level cost estimates, climate rationale, theory of change framing)Develop training materials and technical packages for government officials and climate finance practitioners including support to develop training sessions concept notesContribute to synthesis reports on climate and energy integration for SIDSSupport cross-regional learning initiatives across CFAN and the Islands Energy ProgramAssist in stakeholder mapping and analysis involving multilateral and regional institutionsSupport data analysis, project tracking, and pipeline mappingContribute to internal strategy memos and external-facing knowledge productsThe intern will gain exposure to real-time global climate finance transactions and advisory work. Qualifications Passion for advancing sustainability, improving energy access, and addressing climate change in Small Islands Development States through innovative solutions.Some experience working in climate change, climate finance, i nternational development, or sustainability sectors, particularly in the context of emerging economies or the Global South.Knowledge and/or interest in climate finance policy, climate finance, clean energy technologies, or community-based development projects is highly desirable.Ability to collaborate with international teams, stakeholders, and governments with sensitivity to local contexts and cultures.Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to translate complex technical concepts into accessible language for diverse audiences.Ability to assess data, identify key trends, and propose actionable recommendations for energy and sustainability projects.Experience/interest in developing trainings and capacity building initiatives is a plus .Understanding of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) contexts is highly desirable .Application Requirements - Please upload both documents in the attachment section. Resume (Required) We suggest a 1-2-page resume that includes information about your academic background and work experience. Feel free to add additional sections that highlight any technical skills, relevant coursework, or academic projects that you've completed. Cover Letter (Required) Answer the following questions below in your cover letter. Please share which country or region you are from a nd describe how your background and experiences from your home country or region have shaped your perspective on energy, sustainability, or climate issues.Please include details about your summer location plans, if known at this time. This will help us better understand your availability and logistical needs for the role. Location This position is open to candidates who can work remotely within the United States. Hours: Full time, 30 - 40 hours per week Summer 2026 Start and End Dates: June 2 - August 21 Compensation As a participant in the Yale University Three Cairns Fellowship Program, your salary stipend will be paid directly through the university. About RMI RMI is an independent nonprofit, founded in 1982 as Rocky Mountain Institute, that transforms global energy systems through market-driven solutions to align with a 1.5°C future and secure a clean, prosperous, zero-carbon future for all. We work in the world's most critical geographies and engage businesses, policymakers, communities, and NGOs to identify and scale energy system interventions that will cut climate pollution at least 50 percent by 2030. RMI has offices in Basalt and Boulder, Colorado; New York City; Oakland, California; Washington, D.C.; Abuja, Nigeria; and Beijing, China. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. RMI is an equal opportunity employer. RMI is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.