Intern, Clean Energy Transition Scenarios

Vacancy Announcement

                                      Secretariat of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA)

                                                 Innovation and Technology Centre (IITC) Division

Publication/Transmission Date:     14 December 2022

Deadline for Application:                 3 January 2023 (at midnight, Abu Dhabi Local Time)

Title and Grade:                                Intern, Clean Energy Transition Scenarios

Indicative Remuneration:                  Monthly stipend[1]

Duration of Appointment:                6 Months

Background

The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) is an inter-governmental organisation headquartered in Abu Dhabi, mandated to promote the widespread and increased adoption and sustainable use of all forms of renewable energy in the pursuit of sustainable development, energy access, energy security and low-carbon economic growth and prosperity. IRENA’s mission is to play a leading role in the ongoing transformation of the global energy systems as a centre of excellence for knowledge and innovation, a global voice of renewable energy, a network hub for all stakeholders and a source of advice and support for countries. At present, IRENA has 168 Members (167 States and the European Union) that acceded to its Statute, and 16 additional States in the process of accession and actively engaged.

The Agency implements its mandate with the view to sustainable development, increased energy security and low-carbon economic growth and prosperity. To achieve this goal, IRENA’s Innovation and Technology Centre (IITC) has provided a range of insights on possible paths for such a transformation, spanning multiple geographic areas, sectors and topics. Models and scenarios play a key role in the development of transition paths.

Against this background, IRENA coordinates the “Long-term Energy Scenarios (LTES) Network”. The Network aims to promote the wider adoption and improved use of long-term model-based energy scenarios by: (1) sharing country experience in the use and benefits of energy scenarios for national and regional policy planning; (2) showcasing innovative tools and methods for energy scenario modelling that address the clean energy transition; and (3) identifying channels to build capacity for clean energy transition planning in countries with limited experience.

Objectives of the Internship Assignment

The internship post is located in the Partnerships sub-programme within the Network Hub programme. The intern will provide support to the work of the Long-term Energy Scenarios Network in 2023, particularly in the implementation of the out-reach strategy for selected activities taking place in 2023.

Particular Functions

In line with the objectives outlined above, the intern will contribute to the day-to-day work behind IRENA’s LTES Network and the Network’s outreach strategy, including:

• Support the development of Network inputs and outputs, including but not limited to: webinars, website materials, technical and non-technical reports, workshop presentations, and outcome documents, and a wide range of Network communication materials;
• Support research on the use of energy scenarios for national and regional policy planning, as well as on the role of renewables within that process;
• Support internal and external stakeholder engagement and communication at a variety of organisational levels (e.g. national, international), and in a variety of contexts;
• Perform other duties as required.

Learning Areas

During the internship period, the successful applicant will develop a deep understanding of the long-term scenario development process, including, in particular, issues related to its use in policymaking to achieve national and global energy and climate targets. The intern will also be able to further develop their skills related to research, analytical thinking, drafting, meeting organization, communications and social media.

Timeframe

The internship is for a period of six months commencing as soon as possible. The exact period will be determined based on the availability of the intern and the needs of the programme. The maximum duration of the internship is nine months, subject to the intern’s continued university enrolment and performance.

Minimum Requirements

• Candidates must have completed an undergraduate degree and be enrolled in a Master's or doctorate programme at a recognized university at the time of application and for the duration of the internship or recent graduates will also be included in the internship programme provided the start date of the internship is less than six months from completion of studies.
• Preference is given to candidates studying in the fields of energy policy, engineering (with a focus on energy), economics, or another relevant field with good understanding of energy system modelling and/or scenario development.
• Candidates must be fluent in English (both oral and written) and demonstrate excellent writing and communication skills. A working knowledge of another UN language is an advantage.
• Knowledge of data visualization is an advantage.
• Competencies: Candidates should demonstrate solid teamwork, planning and organizing, professionalism and communications skills.
• Candidates must be able to work in a multi-cultural and multi-disciplinary environment.
• Candidates should indicate in their cover letter the period of availability.

Internship Conditions

IRENA internships may be remunerated if an intern is not already sponsored by their government, university or institution.   In such cases, the intern is requested to indicate their sponsorship in their cover letter. The selected intern will work remotely on a full-time basis (40 hours per week) as per the working hours of IRENA premises in Bonn, Germany.

Application Procedure

Qualified candidates must apply for the above-mentioned vacancy on-line, through IRENA’s recruitment platform, Taleo by submitting a complete and comprehensive CV and a letter of interest.

IRENA wishes to encourage applications from female candidates, especially from nationals of LDC and SIDS countries.

Please note that only candidates under serious consideration will be contacted for an interview and will receive notice of the outcome of the selection process.