Postdoctoral Research Fellow (Hoffmann Fellowship)

Faculty of Environment, Science & Economy

This full-time post is available immediately on a fixed term basis for 2 years, to work on a new global initiative for the poles together with the World Economic Forum and Arctic Basecamp.

The post

The André Hoffmann Fellowship for the Fourth Industrial Revolution offers early-career graduates the opportunity to work at the intersection of society, science and technology through a joint appointment between the World Economic Forum and the University of Exeter Business School.

There are substantial opportunities to unlock cooperation in support of the poles in crisis. Whilst the Arctic and Antarctic differ, both would benefit from an integrated approach at scale, given the common threats that the climate crisis poses. The World Economic Forum offers its convening and multistakeholder cooperation platform in support of the polar agenda, and working in close collaboration with the University of Exeter and Arctic Basecamp is looking to scope out an initiative with the following deliverables:

• A stakeholder map and needs analysis to identify actors and perspectives, which incorporates the views of leaders from science, indigenous peoples, local communities, industry leaders, innovators and youth;
• A strategy for setting up a World Economic Forum initiative on the poles that builds on existing work, is informed by the stakeholder mapping and needs analysis and builds on a calendar of events over the next 2 years;
• A research assignment which assesses current data availability on polar issues and decision maker needs for effective risk analytics, science communications and engagement opportunities for global action;
• At least one knowledge product, set of briefings or report that summarizes findings and is useful to the set-up on a new initiative.

The role will be based in Exeter at the University of Exeter Business School while jointly working with the World Economic Forum in Geneva, and Arctic Basecamp in Rotterdam, The Netherlands. The fellow will be expected to travel to and spend time at the Forum office in Geneva throughout the two years, as well as with the Arctic Basecamp team in Rotterdam.

We are looking for someone with:

• Proven understanding of the polar crisis and its global economic, social, scientific and ecological risks related to the systemic interconnections between the poles and other Earth systems.
• a relevant PhD or equivalent qualification/experience in a related field of study.
• Proven understanding or demonstrated interest in the role of innovation and public-private sector solutions to the polar crisis, including the need for broad consultation on solutions proposed.
• Proven experience engaging in complex stakeholder consultations and networked activities across a wide spectrum of cultures.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, a proactive and multitasking abilities working both independently and as a member of a team.
• Diplomacy, working with high-level officials and executives in a prompt and aligned way, as the Forum shares its work with a global audience.
• An excellent command of spoken and written English with experience synthesizing executive briefs that communicate complex concepts to non-expert audiences.
• Strong programme and project management experience, managing proactively deadlines and deliverables whilst managing change and ambiguity with grace and ease.
• Service-oriented team player with an ability and active willingness to collaborate and jointly shape initiatives.
• Willing to work in a highly demanding environment and ready to juggle multiple priorities

Please ensure you read the Job Description and Person Specification for full details of this role.

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