SEI Research Fellow┋Research Associate: Renewable Energy

Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI) established its Latin America Centre in Bogotá in 2018. Today, more than 30 colleagues work across the region, contributing to SEI’s mission to support decision-making and foster change toward sustainable development. We are now strengthening our work on renewable energy – a growing area of research and engagement where SEI Latin America is providing thought leadership and practical solutions that advance sustainable, inclusive, and future-ready energy systems in Colombia and across the region. 

The role

We are seeking a Research Associate to join our growing renewable energy team. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the energy transition debate in Colombia and Latin America, working at the intersection of research, policy and practice.

The position focuses on applied research, policy analysis and stakeholder engagement to support the responsible and inclusive deployment of renewable energy, with particular attention to innovative approaches that connect technical, social and environmental dimensions.

As part of this role, you will design and implement cutting-edge projects, generate and communicate high-quality knowledge products, and collaborate across disciplines within SEI and with external partners. You will engage directly with diverse stakeholders – from local communities to national authorities – to foster dialogue, inform decision-making and drive evidence-based solutions.

Key duties and responsibilities

• Conduct applied research and policy analysis on renewable energy, with a focus on governance frameworks, regulatory and market barriers, and the integration of renewables into national and regional energy planning.
• Assess the broader implications of renewable energy deployment, including benefit-sharing mechanisms, community participation, strategies that align renewable projects with local development priorities and their environmental, territorial and institutional dynamics.
• Design and implement research projects with strong practical relevance, delivering high-quality outputs such as reports, policy briefs and scientific articles.
• Engage with a wide range of stakeholders – including Indigenous and local communities, government authorities, private sector actors and international partners – to ensure research is grounded, inclusive and policy-relevant.
• Support proposal development and fundraising efforts to grow the renewable energy portfolio.

Who you are

We are looking for a motivated researcher eager to make a difference in shaping sustainable energy futures. You hold a degree in engineering, economics, political science or another relevant discipline.

Required qualifications and experience

• Master’s degree in energy, environment, economics, political science, engineering or a related field.
• At least four years of professional experience related to renewable energy policy, economics, finance, governance or planning.
• Solid understanding of the electricity sector’s dynamics, challenges and opportunities, with a focus on renewables.
• Strong analytical and writing skills, with experience conducting qualitative and quantitative research and producing outputs for both technical and policy audiences.
• Excellent communication skills in Spanish and English (knowledge of Portuguese is an asset).
• A collaborative spirit, intellectual curiosity and the ability to thrive in an interdisciplinary environment while working independently when required.

How to apply

We are reviewing applications on an ongoing basis, so please submit your application as soon as possible, but no later than 19 October 2025.

Applications must be written in English and include:

• Cover letter highlighting relevant qualifications, experience and publications.
• Curriculum vitae (as attachment).
• Sample of published writing, if available.

Apply now

Questions?

Enquiries about the position:
José Vega Araújo, Research Fellow, SEI Latin America: jose.vega@sei.org

Enquiries about the application process:
Alejandra Amaris, Human Resources Specialist, SEI Latin America: alejandra.amaris@sei.org

About SEI

Stockholm Environment Institute is an international non-profit research institute that tackles environment and sustainable development challenges.

We empower partners to meet these challenges through cutting-edge research, knowledge, tools and capacity building. Scientific quality and integrity are the foundations of our work. Partnership is at the heart of our approach, leading to change that lasts.

Our work connects science to policy and practice, aiming to drive tangible impacts. It spans climate change, natural resources, water, air, and health, and addresses questions of governance, innovation, finance, poverty, gender equality and social equity.

We are committed to transparency and full disclosure of our funding. The Government of Sweden is our largest funder, and we also receive funds from a range of public research funders, philanthropic foundations, bilateral and multilateral development agencies, governments, NGOs and other partners.

Through SEI’s HQ and seven centres around the world, we engage with policy, practice and development action for a sustainable, prosperous future for all.