The Research Fellowship Programme is open to academics from educational institutions and think tanks. The objective of the programme is to contribute to the work of the Secretariat on the study of topics where the Secretariat lacks the necessary in-house capacity or expertise. Typical research topics could include the promotion of low-carbon technology, regulatory frameworks for non-conventional hydrocarbons, regional cooperation and energy policy in targeted regions.
While contributing to the work of the Secretariat, research fellows will have the opportunity to enrich their academic background and broaden their expertise in the fields covered by the Energy Charter Treaty, namely transit and trade, investment, energy efficiency and dispute settlement, and to strengthen their international experience by working on a concrete project.
Fellows are expected to produce a Final Report in English at the end of the fellowship and subsequently to deposit with the Energy Charter Secretariat any publication resulting from the work undertaken during their fellowship. Fellows are expected to present a seminar, if requested, and to engage appropriately in the Secretariat events.
Eligibility Criteria
Eligible candidates should be employed by a university or think tank and their assignment to the Energy Charter Secretariat should be supported by their current employer.
An excellent knowledge of English, a strong educational background in their field of expertise and the ability to work within an international environment, are essential requirements.
Offered Benefits
As a rule, the term of the research fellowship will be for three months, which may be extended by mutual agreement, based on performance criteria. While the Secretariat can provide visa support, the responsibility for obtaining the necessary residence permit remains with the research fellow.
Research fellows will be entitled to a monthly subsistence allowance of Euro 2000 from the Secretariat, which is intended to cover living costs in Belgium. If the Final Report is deemed by the Secretariat to be of good publishable quality an additional lump sum of € 1.500 may be granted. Should the Fellow fail to submit a Final Report s/he will be required to reimburse 10% of the sum received. Travel expenses on taking up duty and on leaving will be covered by the Secretariat using the most economical means and route. Fellows continue to be employed by their academic institute during the fellowship period.
