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

Helmholtz-Zentrum für Umweltforschung - UFZ

04318 Leipzig

Bewerbungsfrist: 2026-10-17

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).
Place of work Leipzig
Working time 40% (15,6 h/w)
Contract limitations limited contract / until 31/08/2029
Salary Remuneration according to the TVöD public-sector up to pay grade 13 including attractive public-sector social security benefits.

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

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

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

Diversity and Inclusion statement encouraging applicants from diverse backgrounds