Research Assistant, Risk, Policy and Vulnerability Program
Background:
RPV examines environmental and socio-economic interactions across multiple scales providing the analytical foundation for improved management and governance of natural disasters and climate change. Working in Europe and globally, including many developing countries, one focus area of RPV has been on the economics of disaster risk management and climate adaptation.
As part of a large-scale research project involving many of the leading institutes in Europe, IIASA is pursuing research on economic instruments in disaster risk management. This innovative work will examine how economic instruments may support risk management, including new partnerships between the private and public sectors. RPV is seeking to recruit a highly-motivated researcher with an interest in this topic area.
Tasks:
- Develop conceptual and theoretical analysis regarding the economics of disaster risk management and climate adaptation
- Identify, assess and model a range of economic instruments for increasing societal resilience and incentivizing risk reduction
- Co-develop a methodology to assess instruments according to key criteria using a set of static and dynamic assessment methodologies as appropriate for the different cases (such as agent based modeling and other approaches)
- Publish results (single and co-authored papers) in relevant journals/books and other media (e.g., press, internet)
- Present research results in international fora.
Qualifications and Skills:
The successful applicant should have a master’s degree or equivalent in economics or other relevant field. It is highly desirable that the applicant has an understanding of the economic and current issues related to disaster vulnerability, risk management and climate change. Knowledge of both quantitative (e.g., economic modelling, statistics, risk analysis, stochastic simulation) and qualitative (e.g. interview techniques) research methods is essential. Finally, strong English language communication and writing skills are necessary. The selected candidate will interact with researchers of different nationalities, and have the chance to present scientific papers at conferences and workshops. IIASA offers a truly interdisciplinary workplace, with strong ties to a world-wide network of research institutions, in particular on the analysis of extreme event risks and climate change issues. Ideally, the successful candidate would carry out the work as part of a PhD thesis jointly with the University of Economics and Business in Vienna with which IIASA is closely cooperating on this topic.
Appointment Terms:
The successful candidate should be able to take up the assignment in the early part of 2013. An initial contract of two years will be offered, with the possibility of extension thereafter.
IIASA offers a competitive compensation and benefits package including moving and settlement allowances. IIASA salaries are exempt from taxation in Austria, but subject to the principle of income aggregation.
The Institute’s management and staff alike are committed to a working environment that promotes equality, diversity, and tolerance. The Institute encourages applications from all qualified candidates. Preference will be given to applicants who are nationals of IIASA member countries.
Applications:
To apply, please send a cover letter and resume (Word or PDF), plus names and contact details (including e-mail) of two work-related references to:
Ms. Alia Harrison, Human Resources
International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA)
Schlossplatz 1, A-2361 Laxenburg, Austria
Fax: (+43) 2236/713-13
E-mail: harrison@iiasa.ac.at
For information about this position, please contact Mr. Jun Watabe (watabe@iiasa.ac.at)
Deadline for receipt of applications extended to 22 February 2013.
For general information about our Institute and its research activities, please visit our IIASA Web site.