ASIA RESEARCH INSTITUTE

The Asia Research Institute (ARI), National University of Singapore (NUS), invites applications for one full-time Research Fellow to work on a major research project funded by the Social Sciences Research Council (SSRC) Singapore, under its Thematic Grant programme, entitled Climate Governance of Nature-based Carbon Sinks in Southeast Asia. The position is available on a full-time basis for two years.

RESEARCH PROJECT (CLIMATE GOVERNANCE)

This project places social sciences scholarship at the core of climate governance strategies involving Nature-based Carbon Sinks (NCS), defined as ecosystems that absorb and store more carbon than they release. The geographical focus of the project is on Southeast Asia, a region rich in carbon sequestration potential where the socio-spatial relations, economic realities and land use regimes that underpin the medium to long-term effectiveness of NCS in mitigating climate change remain critically understudied. The project aims to strengthen linkages between the natural and social sciences by assessing the optimal arrangements for governing NCS at and across a range of spatial and administrative scales. With its focus on the governance of different types of NCS found in terrestrial and mangrove forests, peatlands and agricultural soils, the project will locate technologies of NCS governance within the socio-spatial contexts, power asymmetries and institutional cultures that shape their success or failure. In these ways, this policy relevant research will contribute to ongoing efforts by Singapore and other ASEAN countries to adapt and build resilience to climate change challenges by developing low-carbon initiatives with social, economic and environmental co-benefits.

The successful candidate recruited as a Research fellow will join a large interdisciplinary research team that includes a Senior Research Fellow, two other Research Fellows, a Research Associate and three PhD students funded through the same project. In addition to activities associated with ARI, the successful applicant may wish to participate in research group meetings and departmental seminars in the Department of Geography and the Centre for Nature-Based Climate Solutions (CNCS) at NUS.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The focus of this Research Fellowship is on the climate governance of:

(1) peatlands;

(2) areas of adjacency between peatlands and mangrove forests; and

(3) non-peat (mineral) urban soils.

The research component on low-carbon governance in peatlands connects to Singapore’s national interest of promoting sustainable peatland development in neighbouring countries to limit biomass burning that contributes substantially to transboundary haze pollution and GHG emissions. The component on peatland-mangrove connectivity engages with holistic approaches to wetland governance in Southeast Asia that could help to safeguard their sink functions, among other vital ecosystem services. The non-peat, urban soil component involves citizen Science with a Singaporean non-for-profit organisation invested in urban composting and food security.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

The appointed RF will hold a PhD (or be waiting conferment) in a relevant area of the social or natural sciences. The successful RF will undertake research on governing carbon stocks in wetlands and/ or agricultural soils, and will ideally have relevant experience of research in this field. The RF will preferably have experience of carrying out research in Asia, although this is not essential. In addition, s/he will have a record of publication in widely-regarded outlets and be expected to publish project-focused articles in international journals with high impact. The successful applicant will write one agenda-setting paper on integrated wetlands/landscapes, lead individual and collaborative research, organise one themed conference panel, and present research findings at international conferences. S/he will provide mentorship and contribute to the development of PhD students funded through the project.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

1. Two-year contract commencing immediately for suitable applicant.
2. A competitive salary and excellent working environment.
3. All salary and benefits-in-kind are subject to taxation in accordance with Singaporean tax laws.
4. Other benefits that NUS provides and information about living and working in Singapore are available at Potential Hires

*Terms and conditions, according to university guidelines, are subject to change without prior notice.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

To apply for this position, please combine the following documents in 1 PDF :

• Letter of application
• Full Curriculum vitae, including the names of three referees who would be prepared to provide confidential references, one of whom should ideally be the PhD main or co-advisor.
• Academic certificates and transcripts.
• A write-up, of no more than 800 words, explaining the candidate’s past research experience and aptitude in relation to the research project.

For further enquiries about the position, please contact Dr. Michelle Miller: Michelle.Miller@nus.edu.sg

MORE INFORMATION

Location: Kent Ridge Campus

Organization: Asia Research Institute

Department : Research

Job requisition ID : 26669