Volunteers will research publicly available university documents and assess universities against
our marking criteria, which cover a wide range of climate and social justice issues including
decarbonisation, fossil fuel divestment, ethical banking, workers’ rights and environmental
management among others. This work will help to incentivise the university sector towards taking
immediate and appropriate action on the climate crisis and upholding the rights and wellbeing of all
people internationally.
People & Planet would like to support volunteers in their future careers, so will give all volunteers
an official reference letter on successful completion of their placement and will act as a referee for
future positions for which you may apply. From last year’s cohort, 100% said they would
recommend this position to someone who wanted to add experience to their CV.
Feedback from previous volunteers
‘I think as someone looking for relevant experience to bolster a CV, this is a helpful and
not-too-time-consuming position. It had exactly the kind of flexibility that I required at this point in time.’
‘It's a really great opportunity to hone one's research skills, learn more about
The role will develop and improve the following areas:
● Qualitative research skills
● Attention to detail
● Use of data collection software
● Time management and keeping to deadlines
● Working independently and remotely
● Communication skills
● Knowledge of environmental management processes and sustainability reporting.
Training is provided for the role. We believe the skills and experience gained could be valuable for
a number of career paths, including working in NGOs, corporate sustainability, estates
management, higher education policy making, research and campaigning among many others.
Person Specification -the following are essential:
Access to a computer or laptop and internet connection.
Familiarity with desk-based research.
Ability to work accurately and efficiently to agreed standards.
Reliability and commitment to completing work to deadlines.
Able to communicate needs with staff at People & Planet and if needed, ask for appropriate
support to complete tasks in time.
Ability to search policy documents for specific information in English.
Ability to assess information against standardised frameworks.
Ability to work remotely and independently
The following are desirable:
Awareness of current issues in sustainability and ethics.
Experience of research and data collection
An interest in higher education policy.
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