China, Climate Change and International Justice Research Position

China, Climate Change and International Justice
Senior Research Assistant/Research Fellow/Post-doctoral Research Fellow
Department of Social Sciences (Ref: SRA_RF_PDF/SSC/1209)

A qualified and highly dedicated person is sought for a research project on China, climate change and international justice.  The objectives of the project include, inter alia, (1) to situate China’s conceptions of global warming and climate justice in the context of the practical future impacts of climate change, especially for poor people in the developing world; (2) to measure and understand the numbers and behaviors of affluent people in China and how these compare with developed countries, and to determine how the distribution of wealth and the reality of growing affluent classes in China comport with the Chinese government’s international position on climate change; (3) to compare ethical arguments for international (inter-state) justice with alternative arguments based on cosmopolitan (individual and borderless) ethics in this context; and (4) to develop and recommend domestic and international climate change-related policies for China and its special territories (e.g. Hong Kong) that are consistent with development rights and historical responsibility.

Interested applicants with knowledge of climate change politics, international environmental affairs and/or environmental policy, particularly related to China, are especially welcome.  He/She should possess at least a master’s degree but preferably a doctoral degree qualification in a related area (international relations, political science, environmental policy, political philosophy, sustainable development or similar field). Recent PhD graduates are especially welcome.  An outstanding command of English, including an ability to research and write in English to strict deadlines, is essential.  A track record of publication or contribution to publications in English would be a distinct advantage.  Experience working on similar research projects is preferred.  Ability to read Chinese and speak Mandarin would be a very strong asset, but applicants without this ability will also be considered.

The appointment will last from 1 March 2010 to 31 August 2011.  Willingness to serve for the duration of the project is essential.

For initial inquires, please contact Professor Paul Harris, Head of Social Sciences and Chair Professor of Global and Environmental Studies, by email:
Salary will be commensurate with the qualifications and experience of the appointee.  Leave and outpatient medical benefits provided as appropriate.

Application forms can be obtained from (a) http://www.ied.edu.hk/hro/applyfor.htm; (b) the Human Resources Office, 3/F, Administration Building, The Hong Kong Institute of Education, 10 Lo Ping Road, Tai Po, New Territories, Hong Kong; or (c) Town Centre, Level 2, The Long Beach, 8 Hoi Fai Road, Tai Kok Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong.  The completed application form, together with full curriculum vitae, should be sent to the Human Resources Office by email to or by fax to (852) 2948 6005 or by post, preferably before 9 January 2010. Applications will continue to be considered until the position is filled.  Please quote the reference number of the position in the application and mark “Strictly Confidential – Job Application” on the envelope.
All applications will be treated in strict confidence.  Only those who are shortlisted will be contacted.
Further information about the Institute is available at http://www.ied.edu.hk

Related posts:

  1. International Climate Change Information Programme Launch
  2. Interdisciplinary Climate Change Research Symposium
  3. Good reading for students on China and Wind Power
  4. China and CC
  5. Research Needs for Solar Radiation Management (Climate Geoengineering)

Leave a Reply