Consultant: ESG research on Chinese mining in the DRC

About the role

The International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD) is seeking a consultant to research and write a chapter on the ESG management practices of Chinese copper and cobalt mining and processing companies operating in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and on the engagement models between Chinese actors and international ESG standard-setting bodies. The work builds on earlier research on the Chinese ESG framework in critical mineral value chains.

Key responsibilities

• Conduct desk research and, as needed, stakeholder interviews to analyse the ESG performance of Chinese copper and cobalt mining and processing companies in the DRC, comparing them with other major players and tracking changes over the last 10-20 years.
• Analyse the evolution of engagement between Chinese standards-setting bodies (e.g. CCCMC) and international bodies (e.g. IRMA, RMI, Copper Mark).
• Produce a chapter of about 3,000 words in clear, professional English, with APA 7th edition referencing, citing all data sources.
• Draft an inception note, an annotated chapter outline, a summary report of stakeholder interviews, and then a first and final draft of the chapter.

Required profile

• Master's degree in law, social sciences, public policy, environment, development studies or a relevant interdisciplinary field; applicants without a master's degree are welcome if they show equivalent experience.
• At least 5 years of professional experience in mining governance, mining policy, ESG management, sustainable development or related fields, with a focus on China and Chinese companies.
• Demonstrated experience contributing to or independently delivering research and analysis.

Timeline and deliverables

• Start: 1 November 2026; inception note by 10 November 2026; outline approved by 15 November 2026.
• Interview summary by 15 February 2027, first draft by 15 March 2027, comments returned by 15 April 2027, final draft by 15 May 2027.
• Graphics and tables in editable format where possible.