Call for Applications – Lead Researcher
Project: Empowering Coal Workers for a Green European Future in the Western Balkans
The Foundation for European Progressive Studies (FEPS) is launching a call for a Lead Researcher within a regional project on just transition in coal-dependent communities in the Western Balkans. The project is implemented by FEPS in cooperation with Progresiva (Slovenia) and the Max van der Stoel Foundation (FMS), with the support of local partner organizations in Serbia, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, and Kosovo.
Download the Full Call for Applications
About the Role
The Lead Researcher will head Work Package 1: Understanding socio-economic conditions and perceptions in mining communities. This includes developing the research methodology, coordinating data collection (surveys, focus groups, interviews), analysing findings, and preparing the final study, in close cooperation with FEPS and partner organizations.
Key Responsibilities
Conduct desk research on just transition and profile selected coal mines (one per country).
Design and conduct worker surveys, develop focus group methodology, and map stakeholders (institutions, trade unions, civil society).
Analyse data and produce the final study; participate in coordination and advisory meetings.
Candidate Profile
Proven experience in empirical research (qualitative and quantitative).
Expertise in: energy/just transition, coal mining, local communities in the Western Balkans, EU integration processes.
Excellent writing and communication skills in English; knowledge of at least one Western Balkan language.
PhD and field research experience in the region are considered strong assets.
Contract Details
Start date: September 2025
Duration: 12 months (part-time)
Location: Western Balkans (Serbia, BiH, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Kosovo)
Contract type: Service contract with FEPS
Fee: EUR 8,000 (including VAT); travel expenses covered separately
Application Process
Applicants should submit:
CV (including a list of relevant publications)
One-page statement of interest related to the project topic
Applications should be sent by email to luis.saez@feps-europe.eu.
Deadline: 30 August 2025. Online interviews will be conducted in September.
Contacts for Questions
Chloé Deffet (FEPS)
Luis Sáez Jiménez (FEPS)
Balša Božović (Academy for the Development of Democracy – ADD)
