Postdoctoral Research Associate / Fellow in Finance Biodiversity

Job description

University of Exeter Business School

The post

The College wishes to recruit a either Postdoctoral Research Associate or Fellow to support the work of Professor Ben Groom, the Dragon Capital Chair in Biodiversity Economics. This post, funded by the Dragon Capital Chair, is available immediately. The successful applicant will contribute to the objectives of the Dragon Capital Chair the broad purpose of which is to generate an evidence base on what policies and interventions work to reverse biodiversity decline and to ensure that biodiversity is taken into consideration by governments, investors and consumers.

Please make it clear in your application which position you wish to apply for.

This post will focus on the interface between finance and biodiversity. Research will be undertaken on the extent to which instruments and mechanisms can be developed to allow the financial sector to more fully reflect the impact that corporate and other investment decisions have on biodiversity and ecosystem services. The post requires someone interested in investigating the efficacy of financial instruments and mechanisms: ESG ratings, disclosure mechanisms, impact investment and related policies and instruments, in reorientating capital away from activities that are harmful to biodiversity towards those which promote biodiversity. This may involve analysis of individual sectors, funds, and/or supply chains, or mechanisms like the Taskforce for Nature Related Financial Disclosures, among the many initiatives currently emerging on this topic. The post also entails contributing to the work of the newly formed UK Treasury Biodiversity Working Group and the BIOECON network (www.bioecon-network.com). The post could also lead to collaboration with the Global Research Alliance for Sustainable Finance and Investment (GRASFI) at the Smith School at Oxford University.

About you

The successful applicant will be able to present information on research progress and outcomes, communicate complex information, orally, in writing and electronically and prepare proposals and applications to external bodies.

Applicants will possess a relevant PhD (OPTIONAL or be nearing completion for those wishing to apply for the Postdoctoral Research Associate post) or possess an equivalent qualification/experience in a related field of study and be able to demonstrate sufficient knowledge in the discipline and of research methods and techniques to work within established research programmes. Applicants should have some or all of the following skills:

• Strong background in econometrics and applied economic theory;
• Experience in sustainable finance, climate finance or related areas;
• Background in environmental and resource economics
• Knowledge of, or training in finance/financial economics
• An ability to work with interdisciplinary teams on issues concerning the environment, natural capital, ecosystem services and biodiversity.

What we can offer you

• Freedom (and the support) to pursue your intellectual interests and to work creatively across disciplines to produce internationally exciting research;
• Support teams that understand the University wide research and teaching goals and partner with our academics accordingly
• An Innovation, Impact and Business directorate that works closely with our academics providing specialist support for external engagement and development
• Our Exeter Academic initiative supporting high performing academics to achieve their potential and develop their career
• A multitude of staff benefits including sector leading benefits around maternity, adoption and shared parental leave (up to 26 weeks full pay), Paternity leave (up to 6 weeks full pay), and a new Fertility Treatment Policy
• A beautiful campus set in the heart of stunning Devon

The University of Exeter

We are a member of the prestigious Russell Group of research-intensive universities and in the top 150 universities in the world (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2019). We combine world-class teaching with world-class research, achieving a Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework Award 2017.

Our research income in recent years means we’re the fastest growing UK Research University with some of the world’s most influential scientists, and we seek to answer some of the most fundamental issues facing humankind today through this. 98% of our research is of international quality (2014 Research Excellence Framework). We encourage proactive engagement with industry, business and community partners to enhance the impact of research and education and improve the employability of our students. Exeter is one of only a few UK cities to have been designated as a . In 2019, Devon was voted as having the best quality of life of anywhere in England and Wales, making it a popular choice for both work and study.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusivity at Exeter

With over 22,000 students and 5,500 staff from 180 different countries we offer a diverse and engaging environment in which to work. We are an equal opportunity employer, a Disability Confident employer and an Athena Swan accredited institution. Since 2019, the university has also signed an Armed Forces Covenant, demonstrating the University’s commitment to supporting the Armed Forces . Whilst all applicants will be judged on merit alone, we particularly welcome applications from groups currently underrepresented in the workforce.

Benefits

We offer some fantastic benefits including:

• 41 days leave per year
• options for flexible working
• numerous discounts at leading retailers
• onsite gyms on all of our campus’ and a cycle to work scheme
• sector leading policies around maternity, adoption and shared parental leave (up to 26 weeks full pay), paternity leave (up to six weeks full pay) and a new Fertility Treatment Policy
• stunning campus environments in Exeter and Cornwall, in the beautiful South West of England

Informal Enquiries

Before submitting an application you may wish to discuss the post further by contacting Professor Ben Groom, Dragon Capital Chair in Biodiversity Economics, email B.D.Groom@exeter.ac.uk

Job details

Job reference: P74744

Date posted: 04/12/2020

Application closing date: 17/01/2021

Location: Exeter

Salary: The starting salary for an Associate will be from £30,046 up to £34,804 on Grade E, depending on qualifications and experience. For Fellows, the starting salary will be from £34,845 up to £46,718 on grade F, depending on qualification and experience.

Package: Generous holiday allowances, flexible working, pension scheme and relocation package (if applicable). Job category/type

Research Attachments Job_Description_P74744.pdf