The New Industrial Policies Program

The New Industrial Policies Program studies ways of implementing industrial transition policies that reduce the environmental footprint of economic activities, promote the circular economy and guarantee a just transition. The program’s work aims to contribute to the development of sustainable industrial strategies at European and international level, by producing analyses of public policies and their environmental, economic and social impacts, and by leading multi-stakeholder dialogues on the challenges of European industrial transition.

The aim of IDDRI’s activities in this area is to identify the elements of an industrial strategy compatible with the European Union’s sustainability targets. Particular attention is paid to demand-side policies (circular economy, material and energy efficiency and sufficiency), to distributive and social issues, particularly in the context of declining fossil fuel-based industries, and to the question of adapting international trade to the industrial transition.

As part of these activities, the New Industrial Policies team mobilizes its network of research partners and think tanks in Europe and works closely with IDDRI researchers interested in other geographical scales (multilateral environmental negotiations, governance of sustainable development, Deep Decarbonization Pathways initiative).

Objectives and mission

Under the supervision of the director of the New Industrial Policies Program and in dialogue with the whole IDDRI team, the researcher will support the definition of the European industrial strategy. She or he will contribute to: 

  • strengthening political support in France and Europe for a high level of environmental and social ambition in industrial policies by producing analyses, organizing workshops, public events and meeting with decision-makers ; 
  • carrying out research (literature review, data production and analysis, targeted interviews) and outreach activities, to contribute to the European debate on the implementation of the Clean Industrial Deal, the European circular economy strategy and their application in France; 
  • the team’s cross-disciplinary work on industrial decarbonization pathways, the evolution of industrial value chains and the European climate framework (ETS, CBAM) and energy transition. 

To carry out her/his duties, the researcher will be required to contribute to the activities of a think tank, including: 

  • contribution to the development of impact strategies;
  • monitoring research, studies, analyses, debated and policies;
  • organization of workshops and dialogues with decision-makers and experts;
  • production of reports, notes and proposals for the academic, political and social spheres;
  • operational and strategic coordination with the program’s external partners;
  • contribution to fundraising and reporting activities;
  • project management.

Qualifications and skills required

  • Master’s degree or PhD in a relevant field (industrial and innovation economics or development economics, political science, international relations, etc.).
  • At least 3 years’ experience in analyzing, defining or influencing economic, industrial, innovation, circular economy or environmental policies.
  • Knowledge and understanding of the main issues involved in the sustainable transition of the economy and, in particular, industrial activities.
  • Knowledge, experience and appetite for political debates on the future of the European Union, sustainable, economic transformation, the role of the State in the economy and issues of justice linked to economic transformations. Experience in the private sector and/or practical knowledge of European Union institutions would be a plus.
  • Fluency in French and English; knowledge of other European languages a plus.
  • Excellent analytical and research skills (including data analysis), innovative and rigorous.
  • Excellent writing and organizational skills.
  • Ability to work independently and take initiative.
  • Ability to listen to others and team spirit.

Proposed contract

  • 18-month project-based fixed-term contract, with the possibility of a permanent contract depending on programming decisions and available funding.
  • Start date: as soon as possible.
  • Remuneration according to experience/qualifications and IDDRI salary (from €37 k gross per year).
  • Position based in Paris (6e arrondissement).

Other benefits

  • Remote work possible up to 3 days a week after a 6-month immersion period.
  • 40 days paid vacation. 
  • 55% reimbursement of transit passes or sustainable mobility package
  • 60% covered lunch allowance (9,70€/jour)
  • 50% covered commplementary health insurance

How to apply

Applications must be sent before January 2, 2025 to nicolas.berghmans@iddri.org and lisa.dacosta@iddri.org with the following wording in the title of the email: “Application New Industrial Policies”.

Applications must include a cover letter and CV (max. 1 page each), an example of a publication or written piece produced by the applicant and the contact details of two references. 

IDDRI is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all backgrounds. All applications will be considered. We will do our best to get back to each application, but due to the volume of applications, we apologize in advance if we are unable to get back to you.

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview from January 13, 2025.