Research Fellow, China-MENA Relations

About the Carboun Institute

The Carboun Institute is the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region's first and only independent climate and energy policy think tank. It was established in 2025 as a Dutch foundation (Stichting). the Institute is dedicated to driving change through evidence-based research, policy analysis, and advocacy. Our work centers on accelerating decarbonization and energy transition, enhancing climate resilience and adaptation, and strengthening regional climate diplomacy.

Position Overview

The Carboun Institute seeks a Senior Research Fellow to lead our China-MENA Relations Sub-Program within our Climate Diplomacy Program. This position offers a unique opportunity to analyze and shape the evolving energy and climate relationships between China and the Middle East and North Africa region.

The successful candidate will spearhead research on China's growing influence in the MENA region's energy landscape, climate policies, and regional cooperation initiatives. This role requires developing deep understanding of geopolitical dynamics, energy transition pathways, and the complex relationship between China and MENA countries in the context of global climate action.

Key Responsibilities

Research Leadership

Lead comprehensive mapping and analysis of China's energy and climate activities in the MENA region

Assess the impact of Chinese equity and debt investments on advancing regional climate ambition

Examine the implications of competing infrastructure initiatives (BRI, Global Gateway, PGII) on regional energy transition

Analyze financial mechanisms and investment patterns of Chinese green projects across different MENA sub-regions

Evaluate MENA's potential as a partner to China in critical minerals and green hydrogen development

Policy Development

Identify key leverage points for shaping China's role in the MENA region's energy future

Analyze bilateral and multilateral cooperation mechanisms between China and MENA countries

Assess knowledge transfer and capacity building initiatives in renewable energy technologies

Explore the implications of BRICS expansion on energy and climate collaboration.

Develop evidence-based policy recommendations for maximizing benefits and mitigating risks in China-MENA energy and climate relations

Strategic Engagement

Build and maintain a network of at least 50 experts and stakeholders from China and the MENA region

Conduct at least 20 expert interviews with key stakeholders in the first year

Convene bilateral dialogues between Chinese and MENA institutions

Represent the Carboun Institute at relevant forums and conferences

Engage with policymakers, researchers, and practitioners from both regions

Publication and Dissemination

Produce one comprehensive annual report on China's energy and climate activities in the MENA region

Develop and disseminate four quarterly policy briefs on key research areas

Publish 1-3 quick response publications on significant developments in China-MENA energy and climate cooperation

Present findings at relevant conferences and forums

Engage with media to amplify research findings and recommendations

Qualifications

Essential

Master's degree or higher in a relevant field (e.g., International Relations, Energy Policy, Climate Diplomacy, Area Studies, or related disciplines)

Minimum of 2-3 years of research and/or policy experience in climate diplomacy or international relations

Demonstrated understanding of energy geopolitics and international climate policy

Strong analytical skills and ability to translate complex geopolitical dynamics into policy recommendations

Excellent writing and communication skills

Proven ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders, including government officials, researchers, and practitioners

Desirable

Knowledge of the MENA region's political economy and energy landscape

Understanding of China's climate policy and energy transition strategies

Knowledge of China's Belt and Road Initiative and its environmental implications

Understanding of quantitative analysis of investment flows or carbon emissions

Familiarity with multilateral climate negotiations and processes

Arabic and/or Mandarin language skills

Publication record in relevant fields

Network of contacts in Chinese or MENA climate policy circles

Competencies

Strategic thinking with ability to analyze complex geopolitical dynamics

Project management skills to deliver research outputs on schedule

Diplomatic approach to sensitive political issues

Collaborative mindset for working with diverse stakeholders

Independence and initiative to drive forward research agenda

Adaptability to rapidly changing geopolitical developments

Commitment to climate action and sustainable development

Working Arrangements

This is a full-time remote position, Location is negotiable.

Working Hours: 37.5-hour work week with flexible scheduling options

Probation Period of 3 months

The Senior Research Fellow will report to the Executive Director and work closely with the lead of the Climate Diplomacy Program. The position will involve collaboration with other researchers across the Institute's thematic programs.

The role requires regular travel (within the MENA region and internationally) for stakeholder engagement, field research, conferences and partner meetings

Salary and Benefits

Salary Range: Competitive and commensurate with experience, qualifications, and location,

Annual Leave: 20 working days per year

Statutory Holidays: All applicable public holidays in country of residence

Application Process

Qualified candidates are invited to submit:

A detailed CV highlighting relevant experience

A motivation letter explaining your interest in the position and alignment with the Institute's mission

A writing sample demonstrating your analytical and communication skills

Names and contact information of two professional references

Applications should be submitted to with the subject line "Research Fellow - China-MENA Application”.

For more information about the Carboun Institute, please visit www.carboun.com