GRID-Arendal is seeking a Research Assistant to support and assist with development and implementation of the Polar and Marine Program projects. The enthusiastic candidate will work with a small, highly motivated, international team. This position is under the supervision of the Polar Program Manager. The position is based at GRID-Arendal headquarters in Arendal, Norway.

Main activities will include:
- Conducting background research (e.g., literature searches), summarizing and synthesizing information, and preparing clear and logically-presented text;
- Developing and presenting creative concepts for graphical and web presentations;
- Assisting with development and management of new projects, and approaches to fund raising;
- Organizing and running meetings and preparing minutes and proceedings;
- Web site and database development, including data entry and updating of sites;
- Editing and formatting reports, articles, and letters;
- Preparing reference lists; and
- Additional support to the Marine Program.

GRID-Arendal seeks a candidate who is well-organized, efficient, thorough, flexible, creative, and who is willing to take initiative. S/he must have a strong interest in environmental issues, good computer
skills, and excellent proficiency in written and oral English. The candidate must have the desire and ability to work with and understand international cultures and must be capable of working both independently
and in coordination with others. The candidate should have an academic background in environmental science or a related field relating to polar issues.

GRID-Arendal is an international Centre of Excellence, located in southern Norway, whose activities specifically support The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)'s program of work. Established in
1989 as a Norwegian foundation, GRID-Arendal's mission is to provide environmental information, communications, and capacity building services for information management and assessment. Together with its partners, GRID-Arendal's core focus is to support decision-making processes aimed at securing a sustainable future. UNEP, as the world's leading intergovernmental environmental organization, is the
authoritative source of knowledge on the current state of, and trends shaping the global environment. For further information, please go to:
http://www.unep.org.

Prospective candidates should note that this is not a UN post.

Applications must include a cover letter and curriculum vitae, and should reference posting number RA29X2. Applications must be received by Friday, 13 February 2009. Please direct applications and all queries about this position to the Personnel Manager:
Luana Karvel
Email: Luana.Karvel@grida.no