Research and Advocacy Officer

Location: London, UK (Hybrid working available)

Contract: Full-time, permanent

Salary: £38,000 - £42,000 (dependent on experience)

About the Environmental Justice Foundation (EJF)

The Environmental Justice Foundation (EJF) works internationally to protect the natural world and defend the human rights of those who depend on it. We use powerful films, campaigns, and investigations to expose abuses and drive systemic change, from illegal fishing and deforestation to climate breakdown and threats to environmental defenders.

We believe in equity, transparency, and justice - empowering communities on the frontlines of environmental crises and amplifying their voices to secure lasting change.

The Role

EJF is seeking a Research and Advocacy Officer to play a central role in EJFs growing team advancing our campaigns on Deep Sea Mining (DSM) and on key areas of our Oceans policy work, especially as it relates to Climate. The postholder will conduct high-quality research, contribute to policy development, and directly engage in advocacy to influence decision-makers, industry actors, and international institutions.

This is a unique opportunity for an early-to-mid-career professional passionate about ocean conservation, climate governance, and environmental justice to contribute to urgent global debates at the intersection of science, policy, and human rights.

Key Responsibilities:

Research and Analysis

• Conduct rigorous desk-based research on deep sea mining, and developments in related governance frameworks.
• Analyse the social, environmental, and geopolitical implications of emerging ocean and climate technologies, specifically including mCDR
• Produce advocacy reports, briefings, and policy analyses to inform EJF’s advocacy and communications.
• Monitor developments across international fora and within international specific MEAs (e.g., ISA, UNFCCC, CBD) and scientific literature.
• Provide detailed briefings for leadership including the CEO on emerging science, policy and activities across the portfolio.

Advocacy and Policy Engagement

• Support EJF’s advocacy strategy to influence national, regional, and international policy processes on DSM and mCDR.
• Draft policy recommendations, position statements, and submissions to governments, intergovernmental organisations, and industry bodies.
• When requested represent EJF in meetings, conferences, and coalitions, effectively communicating EJF’s positions and priorities.

Communications and Outreach

• Contribute to the development of compelling written and visual content (blogs, op-eds, briefings) to amplify campaign messages.
• Support public engagement and media outreach in collaboration with EJF’s communications team.
• Assist in preparing campaign materials and presentations for donors, partners, and public audiences.

Collaboration and Support

• Work closely with EJFs global team of researchers, campaigners, and filmmakers to integrate findings into multimedia advocacy outputs.
• Engage with external partners, academic experts, and civil society networks.
• Contribute to funding proposals and donor reporting as required.

Essential Requirements

• A degree (Master’s preferred) in environmental policy, marine science, international relations, or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience in research and policy analysis within environmental, ocean, or climate issues.
• Strong understanding of international environmental governance, particularly relating to ocean protection, climate policy, or emerging marine technologies.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to produce high-quality materials for both expert and general audiences.
• Proven ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and meet deadlines.
• A demonstrable commitment to environmental justice
• A clear understanding of and strong commitment to EJF’s mission of environmental protection and social justice.

Desirable

• Knowledge of the International Seabed Authority, UNFCCC ocean agenda, or relevant EU/UK policy frameworks.
• Experience in advocacy or campaigning within NGOs, think tanks, or intergovernmental bodies.
• Experience analysing scientific or technical data and translating it into policy-relevant insights.
• Fluency in another language (especially French, Spanish, Mandarin) would be an advantage.

What We Offer

• The opportunity to work at the intersection of environmental protection, human rights, and international policy.
• A supportive, inclusive, and collaborative work environment.
• Professional development opportunities and exposure to high-level advocacy arenas.

How to Apply

Please send your CV and a cover letter (maximum two pages) explaining your interest and suitability for the role to recruitment@ejfoundation.org with the subject line: Research and Advocacy Officer - Climate and Oceans.

Please let us know how you heard about the position at the end of your application.

Application deadline: December 10, 2025

Candidates must have the legal right to live and work in the UK.

EJF is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment.We strongly encourage candidates from underrepresented backgrounds in the environmental sector to apply. If you believe you would be a good fit for this role but are unsure whether you meet every requirement, we warmly encourage you to apply.