Position Title: Research Associate, Methane Pollution Prevention

Reports to: Research and Analysis Director, Methane Pollution Prevention

Type: Full-time, 1-year contract

Location: Remote, flexible within the U.S., ability to work East Coast hours preferred

ABOUT CATF

Clean Air Task Force (CATF) is a nonprofit organization working to safeguard against the worst impacts of climate change by catalyzing the rapid global development and deployment of low-carbon energy and other climate-protecting technologies. This is accomplished through research and analysis, public advocacy leadership, and partnership with the private sector. CATF is highly respected for its deep expertise and research on energy and industrial systems and potential strategies, technologies, and policies that can radically shrink their impact on the planet's atmosphere. Our team of experts and advocates (and global network of subject matter experts and civil society partners) put this research and knowledge into action by designing and enacting public policies that drive toward zero emissions. We also support policies and work directly with private industry to innovate in technology to make the path to zero emissions swift and affordable. CATF has offices in Boston, Washington D.C., and Brussels, with staff working virtually around the world.

With staff on four continents and operations on five, the Methane Pollution Prevention (MPP) team is leading the global effort to bend the curve on climate change in our lifetimes by combating the harmful effects of methane pollution, a potent greenhouse gas that is responsible for half of the warming we are experiencing today. Our program includes extensive work in all the major methane sectors: energy, waste, and agricultural. As part of our ongoing efforts, we are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Research Associate to join our global methane team.

ROLE

The successful candidate will support cutting-edge research, policy development and initiatives aimed at measuring, analyzing and mitigating methane emissions worldwide. This role involves a mix of data analysis, collaboration with global stakeholders, and contribution to high-impact research outputs with the possibility of fieldwork as projects arise.

The Research Associate will work closely with the global Methane Pollution Prevention (MPP) team across the U.S., Latin America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. They will report to the Research and Analysis Director and support CATF's methane strategy and expansion of international work. The role will support and collaborate with directors, policy managers and climate scientists to execute projects and achieve objectives related to methane mitigation in the waste and energy sectors.

Key Functions and Responsibilities:

Research and Analysis

• Conduct quantitative and qualitative research of methane emissions, emissions inventories, and relevant sectoral data
• Analyze methane mitigation policies and regulations including their implementation
• Contribute to high-quality research papers, policy briefs, and technical reports for diverse audiences

Technical Expertise

• Collect, structure, and refine data related to emissions from various sources, mitigation technologies and practices
• Leverage data from remote sensing technologies and field-based tools to monitor and understand methane emissions
• Stay informed about emerging methane research, policies, and technologies

Project Support

• Collaborate on the design and execution of research projects, ensuring alignment with programmatic and organizational goals
• Support the Research and Analysis team in monitoring progress against deliverables and key metrics

Collaboration and Communication

• Synthesize highly technical documents, complex datasets and discussions into various forms of communications including slide presentations, fact sheets, blog posts, talking points, technical reports, and grant reports
• Collaborate closely with interdisciplinary teams, including climate scientists, policymakers, and industry stakeholders, to advance methane-related initiatives
• Support product/output alignment with CATF's strategy by developing a strong working relationship with internal programs such as communications and advocacy teams

Skills/Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree required in atmospheric science, environmental science, engineering, or a related field; master's preferred (or equivalent experience)
• 2–3 years of experience in methane, greenhouse gas, energy or environmental research, including data analysis and project management
• Strong research and quantitative analysis skills
• Self-starter who enjoys taking initiative and helping others
• Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team, managing projects within agreed timelines
• Consistent follow-through, highly organized, and committed to high-quality work
• Strong time management skills and attention to detail
• Ability to stay focused and communicative in a remote environment
• Strong computer skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (primarily Excel), and Microsoft Teams
• Excellent written and oral communication and interpersonal skills
• Passion for CATF's mission; experience in climate or environmental advocacy a plus

Preferred Expertise:

• Knowledge of methane policy or experience within the energy or waste sectors
• Familiarity with remote sensing platforms, such as satellite methane detection
• Familiarity with international methane policy frameworks and reporting standards
• Other analysis skills a plus: Geospatial analysis (GIS), Tableau (or other data visualization program), python (or other programming language for data analysis)
• Native or professional proficiency in French, Russian, or Arabic a plus

Application:

Resumes received by January 27, 2025, will receive priority consideration.

Compensation and Location:

This is a full-time, remote position, with location flexible within the United States. CATF offers an excellent benefits package (details available on our careers page) and an annual salary range of $80,826 - $100,000, depending on experience. This position is grant funded and will be on a one-year contract, eligible for renewal based on future grant funding. Resumes received by January 27, 2025, will receive priority consideration.

CATF provides equal employment opportunities.