Organization: Observer Research Foundation Middle East (ORF ME)
Title: Research Fellow – Climate & Energy Transitions
Location: Dubai, UAE | Full-Time
About ORF Middle East
The Observer Research Foundation Middle East (ORF ME) is an independent, non-partisan think tank based in Dubai. As part of the globally respected ORF network established in India in 1990, ORF ME addresses critical policy challenges facing the Middle East, India, and beyond. Through rigorous research, inclusive dialogue, and cross-regional collaboration, ORF ME aims to shape public discourse and inform policy on key issues across geopolitics, emerging technologies, and the climate and energy transition.
Position Summary
ORF ME is seeking talented and motivated individuals for the role of Research Fellow, Associate Fellow, or Junior Fellow, depending on qualifications and experience. This full-time position will focus on research at the intersection of climate change, energy transition, and public policy, with a specific lens on developments in the Middle East and their global implications.
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The successful candidate will contribute to and lead analytical workstreams, develop original research, and produce high-quality publications ranging from timely commentaries to long-form policy studies. This is an opportunity to shape the regional conversation on climate diplomacy, energy security, and the evolving political economy of transition.
Key Responsibilities
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- Conduct in-depth research and policy analysis on:
- Climate finance, diplomacy, and technology
- Geopolitics of energy transitions
- Climate governance and regional cooperation
- Energy security and national policy in the MENA region
- Produce a variety of written outputs, including:
- Weekly opinion pieces and commentary
- Monthly policy briefs and recommendations
- Quarterly case studies and comprehensive reports
- Conduct in-depth research and policy analysis on:
- Contribute to thought leadership by:
- Defining a research sub-specialty within climate and energy policy
- Participating in public speaking, external writing, and co-authored publications
- Representing ORF ME in relevant academic, policy, or industry forums
- Support institutional growth:
- Collaborate with the Climate and Energy Director on strategic initiatives
- Manage and mentor junior fellows and research interns (for Research Fellow level)
- Engage with stakeholders and foster partnerships with policy and academic institutions
Qualifications
Research Fellow
- PhD in a relevant field (e.g. climate policy, energy economics, international relations) preferred
- OR Master’s degree with 6–7 years of relevant experience
- Demonstrated expertise in climate policy, energy transition, or political economy
- Strong track record of publications and/or policy engagement
Associate Fellow
- Master’s degree in a relevant field
- Minimum of 3 years’ experience in policy research, analysis, or climate/energy sectors
- Some publication experience and strong interest in shaping policy debates
Junior Fellow
- Master’s degree in a relevant field
- At least 1 year of work or research experience
- Strong research, writing, and analytical foundation with demonstrated interest in the field
All Applicants Must Demonstrate:
- Excellent written and verbal communication in English (native or near-native fluency)
- Proficiency in both qualitative and quantitative research methods
- Familiarity with key policy trends and institutional frameworks in the climate and energy space
- Ability to work independently, meet deadlines, and contribute to team goals
- Flexibility and creativity in exploring new policy questions and presenting insights
What ORF ME Offers
- A dynamic, international work environment at the heart of a fast-evolving region
- The opportunity to shape the public policy landscape on climate and energy issues
- Access to a global network of experts, scholars, and policymakers through ORF’s extensive platforms
- Room for intellectual growth, professional development, and cross-regional collaborations
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit the following materials to info@orfme.org:
- A current CV
- Three writing samples (e.g. publications, policy briefs, opinion articles)
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. If your profile aligns with our requirements, we will respond within one week of submission.
Join ORF ME and contribute to advancing climate resilience and energy transformation in one of the world’s most pivotal regions.
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