Postdoctoral Researcher in Reimagining Nature Finance

We have a fantastic opportunity for a Researcher to be a part of the Sir Evelyn de Rothchild Fellowship, embedded within the Leverhulme Centre for Nature Recovery at the University of Oxford, as a PDRA in Reimagining Nature Finance. The post holder will lead interdisciplinary research focused on reimagining nature finance to support people and nature, with an emphasis on transitioning from extractive systems to regenerative, nature-positive economies. The role involves exploring innovative finance mechanisms, non-market approaches, and cultural, financial, and power dynamics that hinder transformation, contributing to high-impact academic outputs and practical solutions.

Working closely with the Fellow and other partners from the Circular Bioeconomy Alliance as well as across the Centre, the post holder will synthesise insights from research and dialogue processes, contributing to systemic change in nature finance. The post holder will be part of a dynamic, collaborative research environment, engaging with global stakeholders, including financial institutions, Indigenous leaders, and local communities.

Key research areas include:

• Investigate innovative financing models for circular bioeconomy businesses and value chains, such as food, fashion, and health.
• Explore non-market mechanisms for nature recovery, including payments for stewardship and cooperative models prioritising ecosystem health and community well-being.
• Analyse cultural, financial, and power barriers to transformative finance, incorporating insights from diverse communities and stakeholders.
• Collaborate on dialogue platforms and multidisciplinary gatherings to share research insights and co-create actionable frameworks for nature-positive systems.

The role will pioneer new dialogue processes, engaging diverse stakeholders—from policymakers to local communities—to reimagine relationships between people, nature, and finance. Drawing on the principles of circular bioeconomy, the researcher will investigate how to scale Nature-based Solutions (NbS) to achieve both biodiversity and climate goals while ensuring inclusive economic development.

Reporting to Dr. Mark Hirons (Lead Line management; Leverhulme Centre for Nature Recovery, School of Geography and the Environment), Day-to-Day Supervision Dr. Sophus Zu Ermgassen Post-Doctoral Researcher

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