Research Associate in Energy Studies Institute (Security of Supply)

The Energy Studies Institute (ESI) is a research institute in the National University of Singapore seeking to advance the understanding of energy policy issues by conducting independent research and analysis. We are looking for researchers to join a multi-disciplinary team carrying out research projects on a range of energy issues that are of concern to Singapore and the region.

There are openings at the research associate level to ensure the timely delivery of research and policy recommendations with national, regional and/or international clients. The focus is on the international security of supply in the context of the global low carbon energy transition. Topics to be covered include the international energy supply chain, energy geopolitics, as well as the challenges and opportunities associated with Singapore’s various energy options as the country explores low carbon energy options. This will include the option to import electricity from regional power grids, the use of solar energy, the potential of hydrogen and transboundary carbon capture utilisation and storage (CCUS), as well as the development of gas markets in the region.

Job Description

Commensurate with experience, and working as part of a team, tasks may include the following:

• Preparing and reporting knowledge regarding governments strategies and policies, at least at a basic level of understanding, will be required on areas including but not limited to:
  • The ASEAN Power grid, and broader electricity grid integration considerations;
  • Renewable energy deployment policies and potential, with an emphasis on solar and power storage technology;
  • Trends in hydrogen power market development and potential;
  • Understanding the state of play of carbon capture and storage technologies and their deployment;
  • Natural gas supply chains and their evolving configuration.
• The appointed candidate will need to work with a team of researchers and help to coherently report on the economic and geopolitical implications regarding the applications of hydrogen, carbon capture storage (CCS), energy storage and carbon markets in power generation will also be analysed.
• Desktop research based on primary and secondary sources. Besides information gathering, the purpose would be to examine how they are relevant in the Singapore context.
• Engagement with local stakeholders from various sectors to exchange views and gain insights. This is a continuous and ad hoc process that will take place across the full project timeline for all work packages.
• Support scenario building.
• Carry out administrative tasks, including the organising of seminars and workshops, management of student interns, and other tasks assigned by PI.

Job Requirements

• A master degree in the fields of international relations/politics, public policy, energy science, engineering, environmental management, or other related disciplines
• Relevant research experience on Life Cycle Assessment or technology evaluation methodology would be an advantage
• Possess knowledge and experience in sustainable energy transition trends and/or low carbon technology developments
• Possess strong interpersonal, organisational and communication skills, with the ability to work well both independently and in a team
• Possess strong influencing and collaboration qualities, analytical abilities, and a broad sense of perspective

Desirable:

• Quantitative skills and the ability to use data and metrics to inform research.
• Experience in scenario planning (including by stakeholder engagement e.g. stakeholder workshops) is an asset.

Application Process

To apply for this position, please combine the following documents in 1 PDF and attach it under the CV column when submitting your application:

• Curriculum vitae
• A cover letter, of no more than 800 words, explaining the applicant’s past research experience and aptitude in relation to the research project

Interested candidates, please submit your application with all the required documents. Only shortlisted applicants will be notified. Shortlisted applicants may be called for interview, either in person or by zoom, as appropriate. If you have not heard from us within 3 months, you should assume that your application has not been successful.