UNHCR Research Consultant for its Climate Action and Digital Solutions project. Remote consultancy starting December 2025. Apply by 11 November 2025.
About the Opportunity
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) is inviting applications for the position of Research Consultant – Climate Action and Digital Solutions.
This consultancy offers a unique opportunity for experienced professionals to conduct global research on the intersection between digital innovation, environmental sustainability, and displacement contexts. The consultant will play a pivotal role in identifying how digital technologies can be leveraged to promote climate resilience and adaptation for refugees and stateless populations.
Key Details
- Organization: United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)
- Position Title: Research Consultant – Climate Action and Digital Solutions
- Location: Home-based (must overlap working hours with GMT+7 and GMT+1 time zones)
- Contract Type: International Consultancy
- Duration: 1 December 2025 – 28 February 2026 (60 working days)
- Expected Start Date: 1 December 2025
- Deadline for Applications: 11 November 2025
- Duty Station Hardship Level: H (No hardship)
- Family Duty Station: Family
- Application Portal: UNHCR Careers Portal
Background of the UNHCR Research Consultant
As climate change increasingly affects vulnerable populations, digital innovation has become a vital tool in developing sustainable and adaptive responses. From satellite data and early warning systems to renewable energy management and digital agriculture, technology plays a critical role in enhancing climate resilience.
However, in displacement settings, access to digital technologies remains limited due to poor infrastructure, funding constraints, and regulatory barriers. Refugees often face digital exclusion, which can hinder their ability to respond to the climate crisis effectively.
To address this, UNHCR’s Innovation Service is commissioning a research study to explore digitally enabled climate action solutions and their application in refugee and stateless communities worldwide.
Purpose of the Consultancy
The consultant will lead a global scoping research project examining opportunities and barriers related to digital solutions for climate action in displacement contexts.
The study will provide an evidence base to guide UNHCR’s future programming and inform policy discussions on integrating digital technology into climate adaptation and humanitarian innovation efforts.
Main Responsibilities
The consultant will undertake a mix of desk-based research, stakeholder consultations, and strategic analysis to deliver actionable insights.
Key Tasks Include:
- Conduct a landscape analysis of digital solutions for climate action and adaptation in refugee and stateless communities.
- Identify key barriers and enablers affecting access to these technologies.
- Examine how climate financing structures impact displaced populations’ participation in digital climate initiatives.
- Engage with refugee-led organizations, local communities, and humanitarian partners to incorporate diverse perspectives.
- Develop strategic recommendations for advancing digital climate solutions in humanitarian contexts.
- Produce case studies demonstrating successful or promising models of digital climate innovation.
- Create communications materials summarizing findings for public dissemination and advocacy.
Expected Outputs and Deliverables
Output 1:
Landscape Analysis Report – mapping opportunities, barriers, and trends in digitally enabled climate action for displaced people.
Output 2:
Strategic Recommendations Report – outlining policy, investment, and partnership priorities to strengthen climate resilience through digital innovation.
Output 3:
Three Case Studies – documenting best practices and lessons from existing digital climate initiatives applicable to displacement settings.
Output 4:
Communication Materials – including a concise summary report and a presentation deck for webinars and stakeholder engagement.
Deliverable Timeline
| Deliverable | Description | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Inception Report | Workplan, methodology, and stakeholder mapping | December 2025 |
| Draft Report | Draft of Outputs 1–3 for review | January 2026 |
| Final Report | Revised and finalized research outputs | February 2026 |
| Communication Outputs | Presentation and summary materials | February 2026 |
Note: Payment will be issued based on completion of deliverables.
Qualifications and Experience
Education
- Bachelor’s degree (required) or Master’s degree (preferred) in Climate Change, Development Studies, Environmental Science, Sustainability, or related fields.
Experience
- Minimum 5 years of experience in climate resilience, sustainable development, or digital innovation.
- Proven experience leading research or evaluation projects in areas such as climate action, digital transformation, or humanitarian development.
- Experience working in refugee or displacement settings is highly desirable.
- Strong analytical and data interpretation skills.
- Demonstrated ability to design and facilitate stakeholder consultations and focus groups.
- Familiarity with digital inclusion and climate financing frameworks.
- Prior work experience with UN agencies or international organizations is an asset.
Languages
- Fluency in English (required).
- Proficiency in additional UN languages (French, Spanish, or Arabic) is an advantage.
Key Competencies
- Excellent research, writing, and analytical skills.
- Ability to synthesize complex data into clear, actionable insights.
- Strong project management and organizational abilities.
- Culturally sensitive communication and collaboration skills.
- Flexibility to work across time zones (Asia-Pacific and Europe).
- Commitment to sustainability and humanitarian principles.
Contract Terms
- Type: Short-Term Consultancy (Independent Contractor)
- Duration: 3 months (60 working days, with possible extension)
- Work Arrangement: Remote
- Travel Requirements: None
Payment will be issued upon successful completion and approval of deliverables.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit an online application via the UNHCR Careers Portal by 11 November 2025.
Required Documents:
- Updated CV/Resume
- Cover Letter outlining relevant experience and motivation
- Sample of previous research or publication (optional but preferred)
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
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About UNHCR
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) works to protect the rights and well-being of refugees, forcibly displaced persons, and stateless people worldwide. Through its Innovation Service, UNHCR fosters new approaches and partnerships to strengthen resilience and improve lives through digital and climate-smart solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the main focus of this consultancy?
A: The role focuses on researching and mapping how digital technologies can support climate resilience and adaptation in displacement settings.
Q2: Is this position remote?
A: Yes. The consultant will work remotely but must have a time zone overlap with GMT+7 (Bangkok) and GMT+1 (UK).
Q3: How long is the contract?
A: The contract runs from 1 December 2025 to 28 February 2026 (approximately 60 working days).
Q4: What qualifications are required?
A: A university degree in a relevant field and at least five years of professional experience in climate or digital innovation work.
Q5: Is prior UN experience mandatory?
A: No, but experience with UN agencies or international organizations is highly desirable.
Q6: What are the expected outputs?
A: A landscape report, strategic recommendations, case studies, and communication materials for advocacy and stakeholder engagement.
Q7: Will travel be required?
A: No. This consultancy is fully remote with no travel expected.
Q8: When is the deadline to apply?
A: The application deadline is 11 November 2025.
Q9: Who can apply?
A: Qualified international consultants with experience in climate action, sustainable development, or digital solutions.
Q10: How is payment structured?
A: Payment is deliverable-based, issued upon the successful completion and approval of each output.
Keywords
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