Associate Researcher, Global Programs

About the Organization

The International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) is an independent, internationally recognized non-profit research body focused on helping governments design and implement effective policies that reduce the climate and public health impacts of the transportation sector. The organization produces timely, evidence-based research for government decision-makers, civil society, and media audiences. Its workplace is described as mission-led and diverse, with an emphasis on intelligence, adaptability, transparency, and a sense of humor.

Role Overview

ICCT is hiring an Associate Researcher for its Global Program to join the Global Analysis and Policy Support team. The role centers on research and policy analysis related to on-road transportation, especially light-duty vehicles, with a strong focus on vehicle efficiency, electric vehicle adoption, and the global transition to EVs. The position reports to the Global Program Lead and works closely with regional teams, including colleagues in Latin America and Africa.

What You Will Do

• Support the creation of vehicle regulations and policy frameworks through objective technical and regulatory design analysis.
• Study vehicle regulations across international markets and apply proven policy approaches to new work.
• Assess government policy proposals and estimate their effects on technology uptake, greenhouse gas emissions, and consumer costs and benefits.
• Gather, clean, examine, and interpret large datasets, then convert the results into practical technical and policy insights.
• Monitor vehicle regulations, EV uptake, charging infrastructure growth, and related policy adoption worldwide.
• Prepare concise technical reports, policy briefs, articles, and internal memoranda.
• Present regulatory findings and explain analysis in both public and private settings.
• Work collaboratively with Global and Regional ICCT teams.

What the Organization Is Looking For

• An advanced qualification such as a Master’s or PhD, or an equivalent credential, in engineering, environmental science, public policy, economics, transportation, or a related area; alternatively, a bachelor’s degree plus at least 2 years of relevant experience.
• Prior experience studying vehicle regulations, including CO2 rules, fuel consumption standards, emissions regulations, and EV availability standards, is preferred.
• Understanding of vehicle powertrains, including internal combustion engine, battery-electric, and plug-in hybrid vehicles, as well as emission-control technologies and type-approval processes.
• Strong research ability, including data collection, literature review, analytical discipline, and drawing conclusions from evidence.
• Comfort using Excel; Python or R is an advantage.
• Basic familiarity with AI tools such as Claude, Copilot, and ChatGPT.
• Excellent written and spoken English, along with strong presentation skills; knowledge of a second language for reading and writing is an added advantage.
• Ability to work independently with limited supervision while remaining organized, self-driven, quick to learn, creative, and strategic in problem-solving.
• Willingness to travel occasionally for work.

Work Arrangement and Contract

The preferred base is ICCT’s Berlin office. After an initial 6-month orientation period in Berlin, the role can be performed from anywhere in Germany, France, Ireland, or Sweden, provided the employee regularly visits the Berlin office. The position is offered as an initial 2-year contract, with the possibility of extension depending on organizational resources and performance. The role is full-time at 40 hours per week for employees working from Germany.

Compensation and Benefits

The starting annual salary is 70,000 Euro, depending on experience. ICCT also offers a benefits package that includes hybrid/remote working flexibility, transportation subsidies, professional development support, and other benefits.

Application Requirements

Applicants should submit a resume without a photograph, a cover letter explaining their interest, two writing samples or relevant technical research publications mainly authored by the applicant in English, and the names and contact details of three professional or academic references, along with any available reference letters. Candidates should also include their preferred start date. The role remains open until it is filled.

Equal Opportunity Statement

ICCT is committed to equal employment opportunity and welcomes applicants regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender, gender identity or expression, or veteran status.