Research Associate Innovative Financing for Nature

This is an exciting opportunity to collaborate on world-leading research with significant impact through a pioneering project to deliver landscape scale restoration across Africa. The position is co-funded by the Leverhulme Centre for Nature Recovery and Natural State, a non-profit NGO headquartered in Kenya and working across Africa. The role will include academic and applied research, with a focus of analysing financing mechanisms to deliver and scale financing for nature, working closely with local and global stakeholders. 

We are seeking a highly motivated and talented Researcher to help study, analyse and test innovative financing mechanisms for nature across Africa. An important design criterion of the project is community engagement and buy-in to ensure that funds are distributed equitably, so the postholder will have the opportunity to work on-the-ground in Kenya and other Africa countries closely alongside Natural State. The research will include substantial engagement with market participants, as well as dialogue with public financiers, including MDBs, and other relevant stakeholders. This collaboration will enable the development and application of impact-based financial mechanisms for nature. 

The postholder will be part of the Resilience and Development Group of the Environmental Change Institute (ECI) and the Leverhulme Centre for Nature Recovery, and will report to Dr Nicola Ranger, Senior Researcher and Programme Leader. The postholder will also work closely with Professor Yadvinder Malhi, Director of the Leverhulme Centre, and Jonathan Baillieand the wider team at Natural State to conduct research with local communities, financiers and wider stakeholders. 

The successful candidate must hold a relevant PhD/DPhil with research experience, including international development, finance, economics, geography or environmental sciences (for Grade 7 position), or close to completion of a relevant PhD/DPhil / (Grade 6 position) with a commensurate adjustment in either the essential criteria, responsibilities or duties. Possess sufficient specialist knowledge in the discipline to develop research projects and methodologies. Ability to independently plan and manage a research project, including a research budget, and develop new ideas for research projects. Passion for nature and strong interest in finance, and willingness to travel to Kenya. Commitment to advancing diversity and inclusion. 

Applications for this vacancy are to be made online. You will be required to upload a CV and supporting statement as part of your online application. 

The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Friday 14 June 2024, and interviews are likely to be held in the week commencing 24 June 2024 or 1 July 2024. 

Advert information