Application Guide

How to Apply for Postdoctoral Fellow - Climate Economics

at Stockholm Environment Institute

🏢 About Stockholm Environment Institute

The Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI) is a unique international research organization that bridges science and policy to drive sustainable development globally. SEI Africa specifically focuses on collaborative partnerships with African organizations, offering researchers the opportunity to work at the intersection of environmental science, economics, and development policy with real-world impact across the continent.

About This Role

This Postdoctoral Fellow role involves conducting original research on climate economics within African contexts, focusing on how economic policies and market mechanisms can address climate challenges while supporting development. You'll collaborate directly with African organizations and networks, contributing to SEI Africa's mission of solving pressing environmental issues through evidence-based approaches that inform decision-making.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve analyzing climate economic data using statistical software, collaborating with African partner organizations via virtual meetings to design research approaches, and drafting research findings for policy briefs or academic publications. You'll likely participate in team discussions about integrating economic analysis with environmental and development priorities across African contexts.

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🎯 Who Stockholm Environment Institute Is Looking For

  • Has a PhD in economics or environmental economics with demonstrated research experience specifically in climate economics (not just general environmental economics)
  • Possesses substantive knowledge of African development challenges, environmental issues, and regional policy contexts
  • Demonstrates strong quantitative skills through publications or projects involving economic modeling, data analysis, or impact assessment related to climate
  • Shows experience or strong interest in collaborative, transdisciplinary research with diverse stakeholders in African settings

📝 Tips for Applying to Stockholm Environment Institute

1

Highlight specific research projects or publications that demonstrate your expertise in climate economics (not just environmental economics generally)

2

Provide concrete examples of your knowledge about African development and environmental issues, such as regional policies, case studies, or specific challenges you've studied

3

Emphasize any experience collaborating with African organizations, networks, or researchers, even if indirect

4

Tailor your research statement to align with SEI Africa's current work areas - review their recent publications on climate and development

5

Quantify your analytical skills by mentioning specific methodologies, software, or data sources you've used in climate economics research

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your specific research experience in climate economics and how it applies to African contexts', 'Demonstrated knowledge of African development and environmental challenges with concrete examples', 'Your collaborative approach and experience working with diverse stakeholders or organizations', "How your research interests align with SEI Africa's current projects and strategic priorities"]

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review SEI Africa's recent publications on climate change, economics, and development - particularly those led by their Africa Centre
  • → Study SEI's current projects in Africa (available on their website) to understand their research priorities and partnerships
  • → Research the specific African organizations SEI collaborates with to understand their focus areas and approaches
  • → Familiarize yourself with key African climate and development policy frameworks (like Africa's Agenda 2063 or regional climate initiatives)

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Discuss a specific climate economics research project you've conducted and how it could be applied in an African context
2 How would you approach designing a research project on climate economics that involves collaboration with African organizations?
3 What are the most pressing climate economics challenges facing African countries today, and what research approaches would you recommend?
4 How do you see economic instruments (carbon pricing, climate finance, etc.) working within African development contexts?
5 Describe your experience with quantitative methods and how you've applied them to climate economics questions
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting generic applications that don't specifically address climate economics in African contexts
  • Failing to demonstrate substantive knowledge of African development and environmental issues beyond surface-level awareness
  • Overemphasizing theoretical economics without showing how research translates to practical policy or development impact

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Stockholm Environment Institute!

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