Senior Researcher - China

Position Announcement: Senior Researcher - China

Location: Asheville, NC or remote in the United States/Canada

Status: Full-time

Compensation: $71,000 - $79,000 USD per year plus benefits

About Inclusive Development International

Inclusive Development International works to advance social, economic and environmental justice by supporting communities around the world to defend their human rights and environment in the face of harmful corporate activities. Learn more at: https://www.inclusivedevelopment.net.

About the Position

Inclusive Development International is seeking dynamic and experienced candidates for the role of Senior Researcher. The Senior Researcher will be an integral part of Inclusive Development International's Follow the Money initiative, our innovative approach to defending human rights and the environment in the face of harmful corporate activity.

Position Description
As part of Inclusive Development International's research team, the Senior Researcher will conduct investment and supply chain investigations of projects in the mining, agriculture and power sectors that threaten the rights of communities in Southeast Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America and beyond. The position will focus on researching projects developed and funded by Chinese stakeholders. Candidates must be able to read and understand Chinese-language source documents.

Using specialized tools and information sources, the Senior Researcher will uncover and map the investors, financiers and buyers behind these projects - and analyze how affected communities can use this information to better defend their rights. The Senior Researcher will also conduct research on a range of other topics to support Inclusive Development International's casework and policy advocacy. The Senior Researcher will also train civil society organizations in the Global South on the Follow the Money research methodology, with a focus on researching Chinese stakeholders.

Principle Responsibilities

• Conduct research to support Inclusive Development International policy campaigns, which seek to strengthen human rights accountability in development finance, mineral supply chains and socially responsible investing.
• Work with IDI's experienced advocates to write reports that synthesize investment chain findings to inform advocacy strategies for affected communities.
• Investigate and analyze the investment chains behind harmful projects, with a focus on projects developed and funded by Chinese stakeholders.
• You must have obtained legal authorization to work and live in the country from which you wish to work. Inclusive Development International is unable to sponsor work visas.
• Develop new tools and approaches - including those used in big data and investigative journalism - to strengthen our evolving Follow the Money research methodology.
• On occasion, travel internationally to conduct Follow the Money training workshops and/or to present findings to local partners.
• Stay abreast of the latest developments in global finance and supply chains, with a focus on human rights and environmental sustainability.

Key selection criteria

The ideal candidate will have the following qualifications and attributes:

• The ability to read and understand Chinese-language financial documents is required.
• A passion for advancing corporate accountability and social, economic & environmental justice.
• Comfortable working in a global organization that works in multiple countries and cultures.
• A graduate degree in journalism, finance, China studies or a research-related field (or equivalent experience).
• Strong writer in English who can communicate complex topics in a clear and accessible manner.
• Tenacity and willingness to uncover every stone in pursuit of information that can change lives.
• At least three years of experience in investigative or financial journalism or other research field. Experience working on issues related to overseas Chinese investment, human rights and the environment.

Schedule

Typical working hours will be 10 am - 6 pm Monday-Friday in the U.S. Eastern Time Zone.

Compensation and Benefits

Inclusive Development International offers a salary range of $71,000 - $79,000 for this role and a generous benefits package including paid time off, retirement plan, medical insurance, and paid parental leave.

Application Instructions:

Candidates will be required to submit each of the following with their application:

• Resume
• Cover letter addressing the key selection criteria (maximum 2 pages)
• 1 writing sample (in English) demonstrating ability to describe complex topics in a clear, accessible manner

Shortlisted candidates will be asked to complete a short research and writing test as part of our selection process.

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Posting may close without notice.

We value diversity on our team and believe that a more diverse team is a more effective team. Inclusive Development International strongly encourages people of color, Indigenous people, LGBTQIA+ individuals, people with disabilities, adults of all ages, and all qualified persons to apply for our open options. Inclusive Development International is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, national origin, ethnicity, religion, age, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, class or criminal record.