Research Analyst - Bio-Economy and Nature-based Solutions

The Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW) is seeking a Research Analyst focused on Bio-Economy and Nature-based Solutions in New Delhi, India. The role involves generating evidence on job potential and economic activity related to the bio-based economy and nature-based solutions, aiming to inform public and private sector leaders. CEEW emphasizes leadership, talent development, and offers competitive remuneration in a supportive work environment.
Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW), New Delhi

Research Analyst - Bio-Economy and Nature-based Solutions

Terms of reference

At CEEW, we are deliberate about what we stand for (and what we don't stand for!) as an employer. So, if the below description strikes a chord, we would love to hear from you!

At CEEW, we build careers in public policy

● We offer strong visionary leadership – with emphasis on research and impact at scale ● We actively promote leadership by initiative

● We celebrate talent and ambition

● You will be surrounded by smart people who will challenge you and help you grow ● You will learn faster than your peers in other organisations

● Curiosity and irreverence, as well as responsibility, come together at CEEW

● You will get above-market remuneration

● We provide a safe space for all

● At CEEW, your life is your example for others

Designation offered

Research Analyst

Team/ Focus area

Sustainable Food Systems

Location

New Delhi, India

Reporting to

Programme Lead/ Programme Associate

Purpose

India has committed to a net-zero target by 2070, with imminent ambitious decarbonisation targets by 2030. Unless we align climate action with the country's economic growth and job priorities, we risk climate action getting side-lined in the wake of economic or employment distress. There is both a need and potential for climate action to generate a large number of jobs and fuel economic growth, conversations around which have thus far been very limited. So far, the green economy discussions with regard to climate action have adopted a narrow view. Green economy is generally associated with renewable energy, electric mobility, and, lately, green hydrogen. While these are important, such a limiting view of green jobs ignores the job and economic potential that other aspects of the climate action and overall pursuit of a green economy may hold. Bio-based economy and Nature-based resources are two such key aspects of green-economy future with high jobs and growth potential:

a. Bioeconomy: land and forest based livelihoods involving all activities related to production, conversion and utilization of biological resources (including but also beyond sustainable food production) including sustainable materials (bioplastics, bioinputs, biofibers, etc.), biofuels from agro residue, etc.

b. Nature-based solutions: carbon-based /ecosystem-service-based revenue streams for cultivators, community dwellers and others, eg: seaweed farming, sustainable aquaculture, sustainable tourism,

However, the evidence/data and narratives building has been around these two opportunity sectors has been underwhelming. Therefore, we plan to first generate evidence on the potential number of jobs and the economic activity that the bio-based economy and nature-based solutions can contribute to. Alongside, we need to showcase examples of success from the real world where realisation of jobs potential across these two economic sectors and value chains has already happened. These estimates and examples would then be leveraged to engage with the key system leaders (public as well as private sector) with the intention of informing and evolving their mindsets, changing the dominant discussions regarding jobs and livelihoods, and affecting systemic change.

A suitable candidate for the position would support team's ongoing efforts on under this research programme:

● mapping and estimating the green economic activity and jobs (direct) potential across the entire value chain in the bio-based economy and/or nature-based solutions

● identifying key gaps in unleashing the potential of the two opportunity sectors and catalysing development programmes with relevant stakeholders to address the gaps

In addition to the duties and responsibilities below, the individual should be prepared, as and when necessary, to take on additional responsibilities.