SAIIA Is Hiring a Climate Finance Researcher @Unknown

Climate Finance Researcher Job Opportunity at SAIIA

The South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA) is seeking an experienced and motivated Climate Finance Researcher to join its Climate and Natural Resources Programme.

• Job Title: Climate Finance Researcher (Reference: CFR0626)
• Job Location: Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
• Closing Date: 7 July 2026 (21:59)
• Contract: Contract
• Salary: ZAR600,000 – ZAR750,000 per annum

This contract opportunity is ideal for a research professional with expertise in climate finance, climate policy, energy policy, or related fields who is passionate about shaping sustainable policy across Africa.

The successful candidate will contribute to high-impact research projects focused on climate finance, climate diplomacy, climate adaptation, energy policy, and the just transition, while also supporting fundraising initiatives to expand the programme’s project portfolio.

About SAIIA

The South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA) is an independent, non-profit public policy think tank dedicated to advancing rigorous research and evidence-based policy engagement.

For more than 90 years, SAIIA has played a leading role in shaping discussions on Africa’s international relations, governance, economic development, and sustainable growth.

Key Responsibilities

The Climate Finance Researcher will:

• Conduct high-quality research through desktop analysis and fieldwork.
• Contribute to the successful delivery of ongoing climate finance and policy projects.
• Prepare research reports, policy briefs, presentations, and other knowledge products.

• Coordinate project activities and support implementation.
• Identify funding opportunities and assist in developing fundraising proposals.
• Engage with funding partners and relevant stakeholders.

• Organise and coordinate workshops, events, and stakeholder engagements.
• Present research findings to diverse audiences.
• Promote research outputs through media engagement, social media, and stakeholder outreach.

• Monitor developments in climate finance, including mitigation, adaptation, and loss and damage.
• Conduct stakeholder mapping and maintain productive relationships with key partners.

Required Qualifications

Applicants should possess:

• A Master’s degree in Climate Finance, Political Science, Political Economy, Economics, Climate Policy, Energy Policy, or a closely related discipline.
• Between three and five years of relevant professional experience.
• Strong research, analytical, and report-writing skills.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Experience supporting fundraising activities (preferred).
• Established professional networks within African climate, research, or policy communities (advantageous).
• Proven ability to build and maintain strong relationships with colleagues and external stakeholders.

Salary and Benefits

• Competitive annual salary ranging from ZAR600,000 to ZAR750,000.
• Opportunity to contribute to influential climate finance and public policy research.

• Work alongside leading researchers within a respected African policy think tank.
• Exposure to regional and international climate policy initiatives.
• Opportunity to support impactful fundraising and stakeholder engagement activities.

Application Process

Interested applicants should submit:

• A comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• A cover letter combined with the CV into one document, clearly explaining why they are the most suitable candidate.
• The cover letter should specifically highlight relevant climate finance research experience.

Applications must be submitted through the SAIIA careers page before 7 July 2026 at 21:59.

Incomplete or late applications will not be considered. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted for interviews.

Preference will be given to South African citizens and candidates who contribute to employment equity. SAIIA reserves the right not to make an appointment.

How to Apply

Apply online via the official SAIIA careers page:
VIEW MORE JOB DETAILS/ APPLY HERE/