Research Consultant: Air Quality Research Project

South Africa

Contract Duration: 1 March 2026 - 30 September 2026 (7 months)

Application Deadline: TBA

Business Unity South Africa (BUSA) is seeking a qualified Research Consultant to support its Air Quality Research Project, aimed at addressing air pollution challenges through evidence-based research, policy insights, and practical guidance for emissions reporting.

• Developing a Comprehensive Emissions Reporting Guideline Manual
  • Baseline assessment of emissions reporting practices
  • Benchmarking international best practices for South African conditions
  • Defining reporting methodologies, data collection, verification, and templates
  • Deliverables: draft report, final report, presentation to BUSA Air Quality Working Group
• Conducting an Economic Impacts of Air Pollution Study
  • Assess public health costs, productivity losses, environmental degradation, and broader socio-economic impacts
  • Quantify economic costs and provide policy-relevant recommendations
  • Deliverables: draft report, final report, presentation to BUSA Air Quality Working Group

Experience:

• Minimum 7 years in air quality research, environmental policy analysis, or related technical work
• Experience developing emissions inventories, reporting guidelines, or regulatory frameworks
• Proven record in economic impact assessments, cost-benefit analyses, or health-economic studies related to environmental issues
• Understanding of air quality management systems, emissions sources, and regulatory environments
• Experience with government, policy institutions, research organisations, or multilateral programmes is an advantage

• Strong analytical and quantitative research skills
• Ability to synthesise complex technical information into clear, policy-relevant outputs
• Excellent written communication and technical reporting skills
• Ability to work independently and meet deadlines

Interested candidates should submit:

• Technical proposal with methodology and workplan
• Detailed CV with relevant qualifications and experience
• Examples of previous relevant work
• Financial proposal indicating fees and associated costs