Join UNHCR as a Research Consultant: Climate Action and Digital Solutions 2025
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) is inviting applications for the position of Research Consultant (Climate Action and Digital Solutions). This consultancy role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to global efforts in addressing the intersection of climate change, technology, and refugee protection.
The position is based in Geneva, Switzerland, but will be home-based, ensuring flexibility and collaboration across time zones from GMT+7 (Bangkok) to GMT+1 (UK). The application deadline is November 11, 2025, and the contract will run from December 1, 2025, to February 28, 2026, with the possibility of extension depending on workload.
The Context: Digital Innovation for Climate Resilience
As climate change intensifies, displaced and stateless communities face growing environmental threats. Digital technology is emerging as a key tool to help these communities adapt and thrive.
From early warning systems and environmental monitoring to sustainable energy and digital finance, technology offers pathways to enhance climate resilience and livelihood opportunities. However, access to these innovations remains uneven in displacement settings.
Refugees often face barriers such as limited connectivity, digital illiteracy, and regulatory restrictions that prevent them from fully engaging in digital transformation.
To address these challenges, UNHCR’s Innovation Service is commissioning a scoping research study to explore digitally enabled solutions for climate action in displacement contexts.
The goal is to identify best practices, barriers, and opportunities to ensure that technological advancements support sustainable, inclusive, and equitable outcomes for displaced populations.
Key Responsibilities
The Research Consultant will lead this global study, conducting desk-based research, stakeholder consultations, and strategic analysis. Collaborating with UNHCR teams, refugee-led organizations, and local partners, the consultant will:
- Map existing digital solutions that enhance climate adaptation and resilience among displaced populations.
- Analyze barriers preventing refugees from accessing and adopting these tools.
- Develop evidence-based recommendations for UNHCR and partners to promote inclusive, sustainable innovation.
- Produce key outputs including a landscape analysis report, strategic recommendations, case studies, and communication materials for advocacy and stakeholder engagement.
Qualifications and Expertise
Applicants must hold at least a Bachelor’s degree in development studies, climate change, sustainable development, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
They should have a minimum of five years of experience in the humanitarian or development sector, with proven expertise in climate resilience, digital innovation, or research. Experience working in displacement settings is highly desirable.
Strong research, analytical, and writing skills are essential, along with proficiency in quantitative and qualitative methodologies. Candidates should also demonstrate the ability to engage with diverse stakeholders, produce actionable recommendations, and communicate complex findings clearly.
Why Work with UNHCR?
UNHCR’s mission is to safeguard the rights and well-being of more than 89 million displaced people worldwide. Working with UNHCR means joining a diverse, inclusive, and globally respected organization committed to innovation and impact.
The consultancy offers not only professional fulfillment but also the chance to shape global thinking on climate and digital transformation in humanitarian contexts.
Interested candidates should apply through the official UNHCR recruitment platform. Applications via email will not be considered.
For more details and to apply, visit the UNHCR job portal.
