Postdoctoral Research Fellow (Hoffmann Fellowship)

Updated: about 1 year ago
Location: Exeter, ENGLAND
Deadline: 28 Feb 2023

Faculty of Environment, Science & Economy

This full-time post is available immediately on a fixed term basis for 2 years, to work on a new global initiative for the poles together with the World Economic Forum and Arctic Basecamp.

The post

The André Hoffmann Fellowship for the Fourth Industrial Revolution offers early-career graduates the opportunity to work at the intersection of society, science and technology through a joint appointment between the World Economic Forum and the University of Exeter Business School.  

There are substantial opportunities to unlock cooperation in support of the poles in crisis. Whilst the Arctic and Antarctic differ, both would benefit from an integrated approach at scale, given the common threats that the climate crisis poses. The World Economic Forum offers its convening and multistakeholder cooperation platform in support of the polar agenda, and working in close collaboration with the University of Exeter and Arctic Basecamp is looking to scope out an initiative with the following deliverables:

  • A stakeholder map and needs analysisto identify actors and perspectives, which incorporates the views of leaders from science, indigenous peoples, local communities, industry leaders, innovators and youth;
  • A strategy for setting up a World Economic Forum initiative on the poles that builds on existing work, is informed by the stakeholder mapping and needs analysis and builds on a calendar of events over the next 2 years;
  • A research assignmentwhich assesses current data availability on polar issues and decision maker needs for effective risk analytics, science communications and engagement opportunities for global action;
  • At least one knowledge product, set of briefings or report that summarizes findings and is useful to the set-up on a new initiative.

The role will be based in Exeter at the University of Exeter Business School while jointly working with the World Economic Forum in Geneva, and Arctic Basecamp in Rotterdam, The Netherlands. The fellow will be expected to travel to and spend time at the Forum office in Geneva throughout the two years, as well as with the Arctic Basecamp team in Rotterdam.

We are looking for someone with:

  • Proven understanding of the polar crisisand its global economic, social, scientific and ecological risks related to the systemic interconnections between the poles and other Earth systems.
  • a relevant PhD or equivalent qualification/experience in a related field of study.
  • Proven understanding or demonstrated interest in the role of innovationand public-private sector solutions to the polar crisis, including the need for broad consultation on solutions proposed.
  • Proven experience engaging in complex stakeholder consultationsand networked activities across a wide spectrum of cultures.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills, a proactive and multitasking abilities working both independently and as a member of a team.
  • Diplomacy, working with high-level officialsand executives in a prompt and aligned way, as the Forum shares its work with a global audience.
  • An excellent command of spoken and written English with experience synthesizing executive briefs that communicate complex concepts to non-expert audiences.
  • Strong programme and project management experience, managing proactively deadlines and deliverables whilst managing change and ambiguity with grace and ease.
  • Service-oriented team player with an ability and active willingness to collaborateand jointly shape initiatives.
  • Willing to work in a highly demanding environmentand ready to juggle multiple priorities
  • Please ensure you read the Job Description and Person Specification for full details of this role.

    The University of Exeter

    We are a member of the prestigious Russell Group of research-intensive universities and in the top 150 universities in the world (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2022 and QS World University Ranking 2022).  

    Our research income in recent years means we’re the fastest growing UK Research University with some of the world’s most influential scientists, and we seek to answer some of the most fundamental issues facing humankind today through this. More than 99% of our research is of international quality and our world-leading research impact is growing faster than any other Russell Group university (2021 Research Excellence Framework). We encourage proactive engagement with industry, business and community partners to enhance the impact of research and education and improve the employability of our students. Read about our world leading research – Green Futures and how we are transforming education for a changing world. We are located in a beautiful part of the country and Exeter (a fast growing tech hub) is one of only a few UK cities to have been designated as a UNESCO Creative City .

    Our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Commitment

    With over 27,000 students and 6,400 staff from 180 different countries we offer a diverse and engaging environment where our diversity is celebrated and valued as a major strength. We are committed to creating an inclusive culture where all members of our community are supported to thrive; where diverse voices are heard through our engagement with evidence-based charter frameworks for gender (Athena SWAN), race equality (Race Equality Charter Mark), LGBTQ+ inclusion (Stonewall Diversity Champion) and as a Disability Confident employer. Whilst all applicants will be judged on merit alone, we particularly welcome applications from groups currently underrepresented within our working community. Reasonable adjustments are available for interviews and workplaces.

    What we can offer you

    • Freedom (and the support) to pursue your intellectual interests and to work creatively across disciplines to produce internationally exciting research;
    • Support teams that understand the University wide research and teaching goals and partner with our academics accordingly
    • An Innovation, Impact and Business directorate that works closely with our academics providing specialist support for external engagement and development
    • Our Exeter Academic initiative supporting high performing academics to achieve their potential and develop their career
    • A beautiful campus set in the heart of stunning Devon

    For further information please contact Professor Gail Whiteman, e-mail [email protected].



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