Senior Research Assistant/ Research Assistant I in the Centre for Water Technology and Policy, under the Faculty of Social Sciences

About the Centre for Water Technology and Policy

The Centre for Water Technology and Policy, established in 2018, conducts cutting-edge research on water technology-policy interface issues that would result in findings of direct practical relevance for Hong Kong’s urban water sector. The Centre offers a vibrant working environment, embraces an innovative culture and commits to a can-do spirit.

Position Overview

The successful candidate will work on an innovative water conservation project, which will make use of smart technologies to collect fine-grained water-use data of high consumption users in both the domestic and the non-domestic sectors. The empirical data will provide us with insights into the causes of high usage and leakages. The candidate will also make use of the data to engage households and site-in-charge to improve their water-use efficiency. The candidate will work in collaboration with an interdisciplinary team of social scientists and engineers. The candidate should be able to integrate social sciences perspectives to generate data-driven insights that could help lower the total water consumption level in Hong Kong.

Key responsibilities:

• Analyse and interpret complex datasets to inform decision-making and drive targeted interventions aimed at stakeholder groups.
• Compile project progress reports and make use of research data to engage site-in-charge to improve their water-use efficiency.
• Conduct evidence-based policy analysis on urban water resources management issues.
• Prepare detailed reports, presentations, and publications that are based on the project’s original research findings.
• Assist in the design of research proposals and the execution of research projects.

Qualifications:

• A Master’s degree in the Social Sciences or Environmental Management; a focus on integrating social sciences (or science) with data training is preferred; plus 1 year of working experience or a relevant Bachelor’s degree plus 3 years’ experience.
• Candidates with less experience will be considered for the Research Assistant I position.

Technical skills requirements:

• Essential quantitative social science research and policy analysis skills.
• Basic proficiency in Python and experience with data science libraries such as NumPy, pandas, and matplotlib.
• Proficiency in visualisation tools such as Power BI and Tableau.

Other requirements:

• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as a member of a collaborative team.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
• Passionate about making a difference.

Prior experience in one or more of the following is a plus:

• Evidence-based policy research
• ESG reporting
• Community outreach

What We Offer

The appointment will commence as soon as possible, on a one-year temporary basis, with the possibility of renewal, subject to satisfactory performance and funding availability. A highly competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience will be offered. Other benefits include annual leave, medical benefits, and free access to on-campus gyms and libraries.

How to Apply

The University only accepts online applications for the above post(s).  Applicants should apply online at the University’s careers site (https://jobs.hku.hk) and upload a cover letter and an up-to-date C.V.  Review of applications will start as soon as possible and continue until November 10, 2024 or until the post is filled, whichever is earlier.

The University is an equal opportunities employer and
is committed to equality, ethics, inclusivity, diversity and transparency.