United Kingdom: Junior Researcher x2

May 12, 2023 | Conflict and Environment Observatory
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Since February 2022, CEOBS has been developing and maintaining a database of environmentally harmful incidents associated with the invasion of Ukraine. The invasion has generated a wide range of environmental risks, including those resulting from damage to industrial facilities, energy generating sites and water and sanitation infrastructure. The data CEOBS is gathering is now being used by international organisations to help them develop and prioritise remediation and recovery options. Its team uses a variety of remote research methods, including satellite remote sensing and open source intelligence, to track incidents and determine their potential environmental risks. Thanks to support from its donors, CEOBS is now able to expand its team until the end of the year.

Conflict and Environment Observatory (CEOBS) is seeking two Junior Researchers to join its team remotely analysing the environmental impacts and risks resulting from the invasion of Ukraine.

Location: Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire, UK, hybrid/remote.

Salary: £27,825

Hours: Full time – 37.5 hours

Contract: Until December 2023 (extension subject to funding)

Closing date: 31 May 2023

The role


The junior researcher will work with CEOBS’s existing four-person team to verify and assess incidents using a range of remote methodologies. The positions are an excellent opportunity for inquisitive, creative and meticulous early career environmental professionals, with existing experience in technical desk-based methods, to gain an introduction to remotely assessing and understanding the environmental consequences of armed conflicts.

Core responsibilities

  • Remotely assessing and verifying environmentally hazardous incidents associated with the invasion of Ukraine.
  • Contributing to research outputs.
  • Providing any support to CEOBS’ Ukraine research team as determined by the Senior Researcher.
  • Following relevant trends and dynamics in the invasion of Ukraine.

Essential requirements

  • A good post-graduate degree in the field of environmental sciences.
  • Be able to demonstrate technical ability and the capacity to learn quickly. 
  • Excellent written and spoken English.
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Proven research skills and the ability to communicate complex topics clearly.
  • Determination and a keen eye for detail. 
  • The ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Be eligible to work in the UK.

Desirable requirements

  • Comfortable using Google Suite, and using social media platforms for research purposes. 
  • Experience in using remote sensing methodologies to identify and understand environmental risks.
  • Ukrainian or Russian language skills.

What CEOBS offers

  • Flexible working, with a range of home, hybrid and office-based options that can be discussed at interview.
  • 4% employer’s pension contribution.
  • Contribution towards the costs of physical and mental healthcare. 
  • A relaxed and friendly workplace and the opportunity for the researcher’s work to make a difference.

The post is currently funded until the end of December 2023, with extensions subject to further funding. It is a full-time role contracted for 37.5 hours per week. CEOBS offers 25 days holiday a year plus Bank Holidays.

CEOBS is based close to Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire, which offers direct access to beautiful countryside and a vibrant and progressive cultural life, and is 45 minutes by train from Leeds or Manchester. Interviews will take place in June, with the posts starting in July.

CEOBS is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace and strongly encourage applications from all qualified candidates.

To apply

Send a CV and covering letter in Word or PDF format, with the applicant’s name as the filename for both documents to: contact@ceobs.org. CEOBS expects the covering letter to clearly outline the applicant’s suitability for the role, and directly address the requirements of the person specification above. CEOBS is particularly interested in understanding how the applicant’s past experiences and skills could transfer to the role.