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There are many opportunities for scientists in arms, GM foods, and animal testing. But there are more ethical choices for researchers too.
For general advice on ethical careers in science, design and technology see Scientists for Global Responsibility (SGR). Click here to download an article about opportunities for ethical scientists, written by it's director Stuart Parkinson (from ethicalcareers.org).
Day-in-the-life videos of young scientists are provided by the Vega Science Trust.
ESRC Centre for Economic and Social Aspects of Genomics (CESAGen) - based in Lancaster University. Employ natural and social scientists. Research economic, social and ethical implications of genormic and genetic science.
Dr Hadwen Trust for Humane Research - research and capaign for non-animal research.
Garden Organic - research into organic farming
GeneWatch UK - "a not-for-profit group that monitors developments in genetic technologies from a public interest, environmental protection and animal welfare perspective."
Climate Research Unit- based at the University of East Anglia. Carries out research and postgraduate teaching on climate change.
Hadley Centre for Climate Prediction and Research- Government research laboratory for climate change.
Tyndall Centre - a network of university research centres for climate change. Brings together scientists, engineers, economists, and social scientists.
BioRegional Development Group - a non profit which employs scientists and engineers for sustainable development projects, like BedZED, an eco-friendly housing project in south London.
Centre for Environmental Strategy - at the University of Surrey
Centre for the Environment and Society - at University of Essex. Focus on agriculture.
Centre for the study of Environmental Change and Sustainability - based at the University of Edinburgh. Promotes an interdisciplinary approach.
Environmental Change Institute - based at the University of Oxford
Forum for the Future - a non profit which works with businesses, governement, and the voluntary sector for sustainable development.
Global Action Plan - a charity which encourages people to be more environmentally sustainable.
Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT) - a non profit, which employs scientists and engineers to work on cleaner technology projects.
Interface Fabrics Ltd., Europe - Employs scientists and engineers for the production of carpets from recycled and environmentally friendly materials. Research operations in the USA and UK.
Association for the Conservation of Energy -Trade association which promotes the efficient use of energy. Its member organisations include specialists in insulation materials who employ scientists and engineers in this field.
British Association of Biofuels and Oils - A trade association which promotes biofuels. Its member organisations employ scientists and engineers.
British Wind Energy Association -A trade association which promotes wind energy. Its member organisations employ scientists and engineers.
Camco UK- Consultancy which employs scientists and engineers on sustainable energy projects, especially to help combat climate change.
Imperial College Centre for Energy Policy and Technology (ICCEPT) - research centre for technologies related to energy and the environment.
Solar Trade Association -A trade association which promotes solar energy. It has 120 members which employ scientists and engineers.
Sustainable Energy Research Group - based at the University of Southampton, focuses on efficient use of energy and renewable energy.
Wind Prospect - developer of wind farms in the UK, Ireland, and Australia.
Aptivate - an NGO that provides IT services for international development.
GreenNet - works for peace, gender equality, the environment, and social justice through ICT.
Development Technology Unit - based at the University of Warwick.Focuses on development and transfer of technologies appropriate for rural areas in tropical countries.
Institute of Development Studies - based at the University of Sussex. A leading centre for research and teaching of international development.
Intermediate Technology Consultants - ITC is a commercial consultancy which employs engineers and scientists to work on projects (eg clean energy, sustainable agriculture) to help the poorest in developing countries.
The Overseas Development Group - The Group manages both the UK-based and international project activities of the University of East Anglia's School of Development Studies - one of the UK's leading teaching and research institutions in its field. There are some jobs available under the ‘Research’ section. There are some very interesting research opportunities available; these vary in the amount of experience that you need and largely require self-funding.
SustainAbility - a consultancy firm which also undertakes independent research and advocacy, in order to explore opportunities in business. Research topics include supply chains and corporate accountability.
The Centre for Democracy and Development - a non-governmental organisation which aims to promote the values of democracy, peace & human rights in Africa and especially in the West African sub-region. Working through advocacy, training and research in the areas of Governance, Human Rights, Peace & Security, Environment, Gender, Social & Economic Development, there are internships sporadically available and vacancies which are suitable
for entry level candidates also. Please check the website regularly for details of these positions.
Council on Foreign Relations - Recent graduates are generally
hired as research associates or program associates in the New York or Washington DC offices. The Council generally considers candidates with a degree in international relations or a related field and high academic achievement. Regional specialization and language skills may also be required for some positions. In addition to the academic requirements, applicants should have related work and/or internship experience, with exceptional administrative,
research, writing, and computer skills.
Freedom House - functions as a catalyst for freedom through its analysis, advocacy and action. Offers internships (see internships section for details).
For information about research fellowships in the area of human rights, see the fellowships section.
Centre for the Study of Violence and Reconciliation - research vacancies available periodically, suitable for entry level graduates and those with only one or two years of work experience. These positions are advertised on the CSVR website. Also offer internships (see internships section for details)
Dept. of Peace Studies - based at the University of Bradford.
The Omega Research Foundation - a small charity that researches the international trade in military, security and police equipment. For many human rights charities and policy makers they are the leading source of information on this trade. Jobs are posted in the Guardian when they become available, but for more information and internship opportunities, please send an email enquiry to info@omegaresearchfoundation.org.
The Praxis Centre - based at Leeds Meteropolitan University. Carries out research and postgraduate teaching on peace, conflict resolution, and security.
The Richardson Institute for Peace and Conflict Research - the oldest peace research centre in the UK, based at Lancaster University.
VERTIC (Verification Research, Training and Information Centre) - an independent organisation which promotes effective implementation of international agreements, particularly on arms control. Runs an internship programme.
Student Hubs is a registered charity, number 1122328
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