Dr Christian Downie receives DECRA & AIIA Research Impact Award

Dr Christian Downie has received a Discovery Early Career Researcher Award (DECRA) from the Australian Research Council (ARC) as well as an Early Career Research Impact Award from the Australian Institute of International Affairs (AIIA) for 2018.

Dr Downie’s DECRA was awarded for his research project proposal “Who governs global energy? The role of informal international organisations” which aims to improve how energy is governed at the global level. The project will produce new data and analytical tools for policymakers seeking to govern energy at the global level in the face of mounting challenges, including energy-related emmissions. In a rapidly changing international energy system, it will also enhance Australian policymakers’ capacity to strengthen the national energy sector, which by the end of the decade is expected to have yearly export earnings of $114 billion.

His research will use theory and practice of global governance to examine and compare informal international organisations, such as the G20 and G7/8, to understand and explain the different ways in which these informal organisations govern energy. By conducting the first systematic study of these organisations in global environmental politics, the project will also contribute theoretical tools and policy proposals for addressing the challenges associated with a failing international energy system, including energy security, energy access and climate change.

Additionally, the AIIA Impact Award will help promote Dr Downie’s research related to energy security in Australia via their Australian Outlook Blog, Twitter and Youtube channels, and by hosting a public lecture event. Keep an eye out for these updates on the AIIA website.