Careers

Founded in 2017, the Boston University Global Development Policy Center’s mission is to advance policy-oriented research for financial stability, human well-being and environmental sustainability.

To fulfill our mission, we conduct rigorous policy research; provide a convening place for scholars and stakeholders; engage in policy dialogue with policymakers, civil society and media; and offer experiential learning for Boston University students. The GDP Center strives to not only be a think tank, but also a do tank. Come work with us.

Open Positions

Academic Researcher – Energy & Climate Research

We are seeking an Academic Researcher for our energy and climate research workstream to produce policy-oriented and evidence-based research to decarbonize Chinese overseas economic activity and accelerate inclusive, low-carbon development and facilitate green structural transformation in developing countries. The ideal candidate must have a strong background in energy and climate research, with expertise in the following areas related to Chinese overseas investment:

1. China’s role in just energy transition in developing countries
2. Composition and impacts of China’s overseas energy projects
3. Political and economic factors determining energy choices by China and countries that borrow or receive financing from China

Responsibilities:

• Conduct peer-reviewed, rigorous research on topics related to: China’s global energy finance and implications for climate change; the role of development finance in catalyzing energy transition in developing countries; policy proposals for greening China’s overseas economic engagement; and other relevant areas as determined by the GDP Center.
• Develop and manage multiple energy and climate research projects in collaboration with the GDP Center Director and Senior Academic Researchers, demonstrating a strong ability to identify innovative and strategic questions for policy design. Collaborate with BU faculty members from across disciplines, non-resident scholars and research partners, and guide and mentor pre- and postdoctoral fellows.
• Engage with policymakers in China and elsewhere on the policy implications of the GDP Center’s research, as well as engage in strategic communications through traditional and digital media platforms in English and Chinese.
• Co-lead the planning and execution of research work across project lifecycles, including conceptualization, data collection and analysis, drafting, revision, journal submission, policy engagement and other related stages for both the researcher’s own projects and those of others on the energy and climate team.
• Represent the GDP Center at policy events and conferences to advance our research findings. Requires the ability to present GDP Center research findings to a wide array of audiences.

Qualifications:

• Advanced degree in economics, public policy, political science, or related fields; PhD required to advance to a Senior Academic Researcher position.
• Expertise in global development policy and China’s role in energy transition in developing countries.
• Strong quantitative and qualitative research skills in economics, energy and finance, and knowledge of the Chinese economy, climate policy, and overseas engagement.
• Track record of publications on topics related to energy and climate change.
• Strong writing skills, including technical writing as well as the ability to communicate technical research to a wider audience including but not limited to media professionals and policymakers.
• Experience managing and mentoring direct reports, including pre- and post-doctoral fellows; candidates must be comfortable mentoring and leading others while functioning as a collaborative contributor within a highly integrated research team.
• Demonstrated experience in coordinating and collaborating with peers throughout a research project lifecycle. Experience managing the full research project lifecycle is a plus.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple research deliverables simultaneously under competing deadlines; must thrive in a fast-paced, high-output work environment.
• Mandarin language skills required.
• Must be able and willing to travel within the US and internationally.
• Must be able to relocate and work in-person in Boston, MA.

BU Human Resources Expected Hiring Range Minimum $80,000

BU Human Resources Expected Hiring Range Maximum $90,000

Boston University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and life insurance; retirement savings plans with matching contributions; generous paid time off and holidays; tuition remission for employees and eligible family members; wellness programs; transportation and commuter benefits; access to backup childcare and an on-site children’s center; and statutory protections such as Workers’ Compensation and Social Security contributions.

Application deadline: 10/1/2026.

Click here to apply.

Program Assistant and Communications Fellow – Human Capital Initiative (HCI)

This position is open to current BU students. External applicants are not eligible. 

• Support HCI program development.
• Provide administrative and program support to ensure timely execution of HCI activities.
• Assist in the design and development of multimedia content, including infographics, social media graphics, and videos.
• Draft and edit summary blog posts.
• Assist with planning, logistics and HCI events.

• MA or PhD level preferred
• Must be able to work in-person at the GDP Center (53 Bay State Road) between 15-20 hours a week.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Strong writing and editing skills
• Ability to manage tasks independently and meet deadlines
• Experience and/or interest in research- or policy-oriented communications
• Experience with design software (e.g., Canva, Adobe Creative Suite) or social media management tools preferred, but not required

Please apply through JobX. Job Id: 12165.

Page last updated: June 18, 2026.