Research Associate I

This is a hybrid position which requires 8 days/month in the office. You can be based in our office in Washington DC. Existing work authorization is required at the time of application submission as WRI is unable to sponsor any visa work sponsorship for this position. To be eligible for this position in US, you must be a resident of DC, Maryland or Virginia at the start of employment.

About the Program:

WRI Ross Center for Sustainable Cities focuses on integrated solutions to long-standing and new urban challenges. Through innovative research, deep engagement with urban leaders, and global partnerships, our network of local and international experts puts cities on a trajectory of more sustainable and equitable development.

The Urban Mobility program, within the Ross Center, helps cities shift to more efficient, safer, and cleaner transport modes. We promote high-quality, safe and sustainable integrated transport systems that include public transport, bicycling and walking, as well as electric vehicles. Our team empowers decision-makers with top-tier research, analysis, and advice, guiding policies and projects that transform streets, expand safe and sustainable transport options, and improve mass transit.

Job Highlight:

Reporting to the Program Director, you will integrate equity into your work. You will work with our global team of sustainable mobility and urban development experts, and key stakeholders around the world. You will support program management and contribute and or lead the development of high-quality research products, as well as provide support on proposal writing and matters associated to fundraising.

This is a 2-year limited-term position to support our speed management program.

What will you do:

Research & Knowledge (40%):

• Lead and deliver technical work as per workplans such as data analysis and/or capacity building in developing countries and prepare and review technical reports
• Authoring or co-authoring WRI knowledge products (e.g., reports, briefs, data-products) on emerging trends and best practices in transportation, urban planning, regional and urban development, and environmental sustainability, as well as road safety and public health
• Representing WRI on projects and objectives internally and externally
• Support writing blogs and reports. Review2-4 knowledge products written by other WRI researchers yearly

Program Management and Coordination (30%):

• Work with International Offices to ensure coordination, consistency and high quality in the work we deliver
• Monitoring and managing project deliverables on major grants, working with global team members to deliver according to work plans and milestones, track implementation and respond to donor requests
• Liaise with external and internal partners to advance program objectives/projects delivery
• Support evaluation of WRI project impacts
• Support to manage outcomes and partnerships
• Complete institutional and donor reporting for projects
• Provide support on program financial administration, review compliance with WRI reporting, budgeting and processes

Program Development (30%):

• Contributing to research and grant proposals
• Identifying and developing funding and partner relationships through external outreach

What will you need:

• Education: You have a completed bachelor's degree or master's degree in transportation planning, urban/city studies, transportation engineering, public policy, urban sociology/geography, or a related field. Relevant work experience in lieu of degree is accepted
• Experience: You have minimum 5 yr of full-time professional experience
• Previous research or work experience with on topics related to public health, road safety, urban planning, sustainable transport
• Excellent oral communication skills and superb and detail-oriented writing skills
• Demonstrable previous experience and interest in research and writing projects, organizing, and coordinating large events
• Adaptable to rapidly changing priorities and able to manage multiple projects with varying deadlines and competing demands
• Languages: Fluent in English. Additional language a plus
• Requirements: Existing work authorization is required where this position is based. WRI is unable to authorize visa work authorization

Potential Salary: US salary range is between 84,000 and 95,000 USD. Salary is commensurate with experience and other compensable factors.

How to Apply: Please submit a resume with a required cover letter by the date of 27 February 2025. We may close for applications sooner if we receive a high volume of qualified applications.

We are unable to consider your application without a cover letter in addition to your resume.

You must apply through the WRI Careers portal to be considered.

What we offer:

• Access to the WRI global network with the opportunity to exchange with and learn from passionate colleagues working at the cutting edge of their fields across Asia, Africa, Europe, Latin America and the US
• The chance to have an impact and to develop your career within a mission driven organization with access to varied learning and training opportunities.
• A workplace that strives to put diversity and inclusion at the heart of our work
• The opportunity to join and get involved in different working groups and affinity groups to shape the future of WRI
• Commitment to hybrid working model with flexible working hours
• Generous leave days that increase with tenure
• Medical Coverage, Dental Coverage, Vision Coverage, retirement plan access and employer contribution

About Us:

Founded in 1982, World Resources Institute (WRI) is an independent, nonprofit global research organization that turns big ideas into action at the nexus of environment, economic opportunity, and human well-being. We are working to address seven critical challenges that the world must overcome this decade to secure a sustainable future for people and the planet: climate change, energy, food, forests, water, sustainable cities, and the ocean. WRI has a global staff of over 1,800 people with work spanning 60 countries. We have offices in Africa, Brazil, China, Europe, India, Indonesia, Mexico, Colombia and the United States, as well as a growing presence in other countries and regions.

The foundation of our work is delivering high-quality research, data, maps, and analysis to solve the world's greatest environment and international development challenges and improve people's lives. We work with leaders in government, business, and civil society to drive ambitious action and create change on the ground. Equally important, we bring together partners to develop breakthrough ideas and scale-up solutions for far-reaching, enduring impact.

Our mission and values:

WRI's mission is to move human society to live in ways that protect Earth's environment and its capacity to provide for the needs and aspirations of current and future generations.

Our values are shared ideals that bind us together: Integrity, Innovation, Urgency, Independence and Respect.

Our culture:

WRI is committed to advancing gender and social equity for human well-being in our mission including equal opportunities in employment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, age, caste, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, disability, or protected Veteran status.

Our team in Human Resources carefully reviews all applications.