Nature à France

The International Potato Center (CIP) is seeking an outstanding and experienced candidate for the position of Senior Research Associate and/or Research Associate to contribute to various interdisciplinary research projects (ID) carried out by our hosted organization, the Wyss Academy for Nature.

Based on the experience, skills, and performance during the interview, either of the two position types may be offered.

The Wyss Academy for Nature (WA) at the University of Bern envisions achieving a just and sustainable world where nature conservation and human wellbeing mutually reinforce each other. We are a hub of innovation, engaging researchers, businesses, policymakers, practitioners, and communities to co-design solutions for sustainable futures. Our focus is on developing and implementing innovative solutions to address climate change, biodiversity loss, land use change, and rising inequality by integrating technical, social, economic, institutional, and policy innovations at the intersection of nature and people. The WA has four regional hubs located in Europe (Switzerland), South America (Peru), East Africa (Kenya), and Southeast Asia (Laos).

About the role:

• This position is nationally recruited and based in Puerto Maldonado, Peru.
• The successful candidate will contribute to various interdisciplinary research projects (ID) implemented by the Wyss Academy for Nature and its partners.
• The candidate will serve as the focal point for the Artisanal Small-scale Gold Mining (ASGM) ID project, which aims to study the challenges and opportunities for transitioning towards responsible artisanal mining in the Peruvian Amazon. The study seeks to generate knowledge that promotes the adoption of better practices along the gold value chain.

Key responsibilities:

• Implement and support the ID research projects in collaboration with the MDD scientist, Wyss Academy professors, and project leads.
• Supervise and support research activities, including data collection and analysis, literature review, secondary data collection, household interviews, and surveys.
• Assist in designing and implementing Randomized Control Trials and analyzing data using various statistical methods.
• Establish and coordinate partnerships, and engage with local stakeholders through workshops and learning events.
• Prepare internal reports with preliminary results for discussion with the Hub and research teams.
• Contribute to the production of scientific articles, policy briefs, and other outreach materials.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety policies of CIP.

What are we looking for?

• A degree in economics, finance, political science, environmental economics, or agricultural economics, preferably with a specialization or clear interest in development economics (MSc highly preferred).
• At least 6 years of relevant experience in applied research related to development, conservation, or work with international or governmental organizations.
• Strong statistical and econometric skills.
• Experience in designing and implementing randomized control trials is highly desirable.
• Programming skills in R, Python, or Stata are preferred.
• Knowledge of economic valuation methods for ecosystem services and biodiversity is desirable.
• Understanding of cost-benefit analysis is a plus.
• Prior experience with tropical landscapes is preferred.
• Ability to collaborate and learn from leading researchers at the University of Bern.
• Opportunity to participate in summer schools, conferences, and visits to the University of Bern.
• Competitive compensation package.
• One-year contract with the possibility of renewal.