Scientist (f/m/x) climate adaptation funding and case studies in Ukraine

The UFZ

The Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research (UFZ) is a world-leading institution in environmental research and a member of the Helmholtz Association, Germany’s largest scientific organisation. With approximately 1,200 employees across Leipzig, Halle, and Magdeburg, we have been conducting research since 1991 using a transdisciplinary approach to address the most pressing challenges of our time: biodiversity loss, climate change, and environmental pollution. Our goal is to translate excellent research into practical solutions for policymakers, business, and society, and to serve as a reliable partner in supporting transformation processes toward a sustainable and just future for current and future generations. We foster a culture of collaboration, openness, and diversity within a work environment that actively promotes creativity and personal development.

The job

Within the CAESAR project, you will conduct and coordinate case studies on climate adaptation in Ukraine. You will analyse the economic and financial conditions for adaptation investments and work with public authorities, financial institutions and project partners to develop viable financing approaches for the Private Adaptation Finance Framework (PAFF).

Your tasks

• Conduct and coordinate the CAESAR case studies in Ukraine: develop baselines, structure and validate local and regional data, and analyse adaptation needs, investment projects and institutional conditions
• Assess adaptation measures from economic, financial and ESG perspectives: conduct financial diagnostics, fiscal and debt-sustainability analyses, NPV/cash-flow assessments and cost-benefit and multi-criteria analyses; assess CAPEX/OPEX, avoided losses and other benefits
• Develop finance-readiness dossiers and investment concepts for the PAFF: assess sustainable or KPI-linked loans, guarantees, concessional and blended finance, and contribute to the PAFF toolbox and Resilience-by-Design stress testing
• Organise expert discussions, workshops and Climate Resilience Dialogues with public authorities, financial institutions and other stakeholders in Ukraine: document financing barriers and needs and support joint investment pathways
• Synthesise findings from the Ukrainian case studies with other work packages: contribute to deliverables, project reports, policy and best-practice products and scientific publications, and support quality assurance, presentations and knowledge transfer

We offer

• The freedom to master even the most demanding challenges between basic research and practical application
• The chance to work in interdisciplinary, international teams and benefit from a variety of perspectives
• Firstclass integration into national and international research networks to work together on global challenges
• Excellent research infrastructure and research data management to optimally support your work
• Flexible working hours and a wide range of options for balancing work and care responsibilities through our family office
• Competent support and advice for international colleagues arriving at the UFZ from the 'International Office'
• Special annual payment, capital-forming benefits and subsidised Germany Job Ticket
• A workplace in a vibrant region with a high life quality and social and cultural diversity

Your profile

• Completed university degree (Master’s/Diploma or equivalent) in finance or economics
• At least five years of professional experience in banking institutions, preferably in Ukraine
• Proven experience in the financial and non-financial assessment of municipalities/local communities
• Professional experience in development banks or development finance institutions