Application Guide

How to Apply for Research Associate

at Stockholm Environment Institute

๐Ÿข About Stockholm Environment Institute

The Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI) is a unique international research organization that bridges environmental science with practical development solutions, operating at the science-policy interface. SEI Latin America, established in 2018 and based in Bogotรก, represents their newest regional centre, offering the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research specifically focused on Latin American environmental challenges within a globally connected network.

About This Role

As a Research Associate at SEI Latin America, you'll conduct applied research on environmental and sustainability issues across the region, analyzing data to inform publications and policy. This role is impactful because you'll directly support the development and implementation of research projects that address real-world environmental challenges in Latin America, collaborating with diverse stakeholders to create meaningful change.

๐Ÿ’ก A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve analyzing environmental data from Latin American sources, collaborating remotely with team members across the region via video calls, and contributing to research reports or publications. You'll likely participate in project meetings, review literature on regional sustainability issues, and engage with stakeholders to ensure research relevance to local contexts.

๐ŸŽฏ Who Stockholm Environment Institute Is Looking For

  • Has 1-3 years of hands-on research experience specifically in Latin American environmental contexts, not just general environmental science
  • Demonstrates proficiency with both quantitative and qualitative data analysis methods relevant to sustainability research
  • Possesses working knowledge of key Latin American environmental issues such as deforestation, water management, or climate adaptation in the region
  • Shows evidence of successful collaboration in multicultural teams, ideally with experience working across different Latin American countries

๐Ÿ“ Tips for Applying to Stockholm Environment Institute

1

Highlight specific research experience related to Latin America - mention particular countries, ecosystems, or environmental issues you've studied

2

Include concrete examples of data analysis projects, specifying the tools/methods used (R, Python, GIS, etc.) and how they informed research outcomes

3

Demonstrate knowledge of SEI's Latin America centre's current projects by referencing their recent publications or initiatives from their Bogotรก office

4

Show how you've worked effectively in remote, multicultural teams, as this is a remote position within a regional centre

5

Tailor your application to SEI's mission of bridging research with policy - emphasize how your work has practical applications or policy implications

โœ‰๏ธ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your specific research experience with Latin American environmental issues and why this regional focus matters to you', 'Examples of collaborative research projects, especially those involving multiple stakeholders or cross-cultural teams', 'How your analytical skills have contributed to tangible research outputs like publications, reports, or policy recommendations', "Why SEI's approach to connecting research with practical solutions aligns with your professional goals"]

Generate Cover Letter โ†’

๐Ÿ” Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • โ†’ Review SEI Latin America's specific projects and publications from their Bogotรก centre (not just global SEI work)
  • โ†’ Study the key environmental challenges in Latin America that SEI focuses on, such as those mentioned in their recent regional reports
  • โ†’ Understand SEI's organizational structure and how the Latin America centre collaborates with other SEI centres globally
  • โ†’ Research SEI's key partners and stakeholders in Latin America to understand their network and impact channels

๐Ÿ’ฌ Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a specific research project you conducted on a Latin American environmental issue and its findings
2 How would you approach designing a research project on [specific SEI Latin America focus area like Amazon conservation or urban sustainability]?
3 Tell us about a time you collaborated with team members from different cultural backgrounds on a research project
4 What data analysis methods have you found most effective for sustainability research, and why?
5 How do you ensure research findings are accessible and useful to policymakers and stakeholders in Latin America?
Practice Interview Questions โ†’

โš ๏ธ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting generic environmental research experience without highlighting Latin American context or regional expertise
  • Focusing only on theoretical research without demonstrating how your work connects to practical applications or policy
  • Failing to show understanding of SEI's specific mission and how it differs from academic research institutions

๐Ÿ“… 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

โœ“

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Stockholm Environment Institute!