We are looking for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Innovative Financing for Nature to help shape how innovative financing mechanisms can unlock large-scale nature recovery in Africa and beyond. This role offers the chance to combine cutting-edge research with real-world impact, working at the intersection of conservation, finance, and policy.
Based at the Leverhulme Centre for Nature Recovery, and working closely with Natural State, a non-profit organisation headquartered in Kenya, you will explore and test new ways to mobilise finance for conservation and restoration. Areas of focus may include outcomes-based finance such as impact bonds, carbon–biodiversity credits, blended finance structures, and the design of decision-support tools for conservation investment.
You will collaborate with governments, development financiers, market participants and local communities, ensuring that equity and inclusion are at the centre of the work. The research you lead will generate both academic outputs and practical insights, helping to build confidence and trust in innovative finance solutions for nature.
As part of a vibrant and interdisciplinary team, you will also support and mentor junior colleagues, including research assistants, PhD students and project volunteers. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to world-leading research while shaping bold, practical solutions for people and planet.
This post is fixed-term until 1 December 2027 and is offered on a full-time basis (37.5 hours). Reduced hours may be considered.
What We Offer
As an employer, we genuinely care about our employees' well-being, and this is reflected in the range of benefits that we offer including:
* An excellent contributory pension scheme
* 38 days annual leave
* A comprehensive range of childcare services
* Family leave schemes
* Cycle loan scheme
* Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans.
All applications must include a CV, Supporting Statement/Cover Letter.
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The closing date for applications is 12.00 noon on 15 October 2025. Only applications submitted by this time will be considered.
The University of Oxford and The School of Geography and the Environment are Silver Athena SWAN holders. Applications are particularly welcome and encouraged from women, black, and minority ethnic candidates, who are under-represented in posts in The School of Geography and the Environment. The School of Geography and the Environment are committed to equality and values diversity