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Climate Research Phd Jobs (NOW HIRING)

PHD Thesis PhD Position - Additive Manufacturing and Resource Strategies for the Energy Transition ... At the Institute of Climate and Energy Systems - Jülich System Analysis (ICE-2), we research the ...

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Climate Research Phd information

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$80K

$99.8K

$135.5K

How much do climate research phd jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for climate research phd in the United States is $99,840.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,000.00 and $115,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a climate research PhD?

A Climate Research PhD is an advanced doctoral degree focused on studying the Earth's climate systems, the factors that influence climate change, and potential solutions for mitigating its impacts. Students in this program conduct original research, often using data analysis, modeling, and fieldwork, to advance scientific understanding of climate dynamics. Graduates typically pursue careers in academia, government agencies, environmental organizations, or private industry, contributing their expertise to address pressing global climate challenges.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a climate research PhD, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Climate Research PhD, you need advanced expertise in climate science, data analysis, and research methodologies, typically supported by a doctorate in a relevant field. Proficiency with statistical software (such as R or Python), climate modeling tools, and familiarity with geospatial analysis systems is essential. Strong communication, critical thinking, and collaboration skills distinguish top researchers in this area. These abilities are vital for conducting rigorous research, interpreting complex data, and effectively sharing findings to inform climate policy and science.

What are some common challenges faced by climate research PhDs when working on collaborative projects?

Climate Research PhDs often work with multidisciplinary teams, including scientists, policy experts, and data analysts. A common challenge is aligning methodologies and communication styles across different fields, which can lead to misunderstandings or delays. Effective collaboration requires adaptability, openness to feedback, and strong project management skills to ensure research objectives are met. Building rapport and maintaining regular communication channels are essential for overcoming these challenges and achieving impactful results.

What is the difference between Climate Research Phd vs Climate Data Analyst?

AspectClimate Research PhdClimate Data Analyst
Required CredentialsDoctorate in Climate Science or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Data Science, Environmental Science, or related field
Work EnvironmentAcademic, research institutions, government agenciesCorporate, consulting firms, government agencies
Industry UsageConducts advanced research, publishes papersAnalyzes climate data, creates reports, supports decision-making

The main difference between a Climate Research Phd and a Climate Data Analyst lies in their focus and credentials. A Climate Research Phd typically involves conducting advanced research and publishing scholarly work, requiring a doctorate. In contrast, a Climate Data Analyst primarily interprets climate data to inform decisions, often with a bachelor's or master's degree. Both roles are vital in the climate industry but serve different functions and work environments.

More about Climate Research Phd jobs

What cities are hiring for Climate Research Phd jobs?

Cities with the most Climate Research Phd job openings:

What states have the most Climate Research Phd jobs?

States with the most job openings for Climate Research Phd jobs include:

Infographic showing various Climate Research Phd job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,840 per year, or $48 per hour.

Academic Researcher, Global Development Policy Center

Boston, MA • On-site

Boston University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees

$80K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Boston University rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 51 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description


The Boston University Global Development Policy Center (GDP Center) seeks an Academic Researcher for our energy and climate research workstream to produce policy-oriented and evidence-based research to decarbonize Chinese overseas economic activity and accelerate inclusive, low-carbon development and facilitate green structural transformation in developing countries. The ideal candidate must have a strong background in energy and climate research, with expertise in the following areas related to Chinese overseas investment:
  1. China's role in just energy transition in developing countries
  2. Composition and impacts of China's overseas energy projects
  3. Political and economic factors determining energy choices by China and countries that borrow or receive financing from China

Responsibilities:
Conduct peer-reviewed, rigorous research on topics related to: China's global energy finance and implications for climate change; the role of development finance in catalyzing energy transition in developing countries; policy proposals for greening China's overseas economic engagement; and other relevant areas as determined by the GDP Center.
Develop and manage multiple energy and climate research projects in collaboration with the GDP Center Director and Senior Academic Researchers, demonstrating a strong ability to identify innovative and strategic questions for policy design. Collaborate with BU faculty members from across disciplines, non-resident scholars and research partners, and guide and mentor pre- and postdoctoral fellows.
Engage with policymakers in China and elsewhere on the policy implications of the GDP Center's research, as well as engage in strategic communications through traditional and digital media platforms in English and Chinese.
Co-lead the planning and execution of research work across project lifecycles, including conceptualization, data collection and analysis, drafting, revision, journal submission, policy engagement and other related stages for both the researcher's own projects and those of others on the energy and climate team.
Represent the GDP Center at policy events and conferences to advance our research findings. Requires the ability to present GDP Center research findings to a wide array of audiences.
Required Skills
Qualifications:
  • Advanced degree in economics, public policy, political science, or related fields; PhD required to advance to a Senior Academic Researcher position.
  • Expertise in global development policy and China's role in energy transition in developing countries.
  • Strong quantitative and qualitative research skills in economics, energy and finance, and knowledge of the Chinese economy, climate policy, and overseas engagement.
  • Track record of publications on topics related to energy and climate change.
  • Strong writing skills, including technical writing as well as the ability to communicate technical research to a wider audience including but not limited to media professionals and policymakers.
  • Experience managing and mentoring direct reports, including pre- and post-doctoral fellows; candidates must be comfortable mentoring and leading others while functioning as a collaborative contributor within a highly integrated research team.
  • Demonstrated experience in coordinating and collaborating with peers throughout a research project lifecycle. Experience managing the full research project lifecycle is a plus.
  • Demonstrated ability to manage multiple research deliverables simultaneously under competing deadlines; must thrive in a fast-paced, high-output work environment.
  • Mandarin language skills required.
  • Must be able and willing to travel within the US and internationally.
  • Must be able to relocate and work in-person in Boston, MA.

BU Human Resources Expected Hiring Range Minimum $80,000
BU Human Resources Expected Hiring Range Maximum $90,000
Boston University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and life insurance; retirement savings plans with matching contributions; generous paid time off and holidays; tuition remission for employees and eligible family members; wellness programs; transportation and commuter benefits; access to backup childcare and an on-site children's center; and statutory protections such as Workers' Compensation and Social Security contributions.
Application Instructions:
Application deadline: 10/1/2026. Click here to apply.
We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, natural or protective hairstyle, religion, sex, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military service, pregnancy or pregnancy-related condition, or because of marital, parental, or veteran status. We are a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.

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About Boston University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Boston University is an international, comprehensive, private research university, committed to educating students to be reflective, resourceful individuals ready to live, adapt, and lead in an interconnected world. Boston University is committed to generating new knowledge to benefit society. We remain dedicated to our founding principles: that higher education should be accessible to all and that research, scholarship, artistic creation, and professional practice should be conducted in the service of the wider community—local and international. These principles endure in the University’s insistence on the value of diversity, in its tradition and standards of excellence, and in its dynamic engagement with the City of Boston and the world. Boston University comprises a remarkable range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs built on a strong foundation of the liberal arts and sciences. With the support and oversight of the Board of Trustees, the University, through our faculty, continually innovates in education and research to ensure that we meet the needs of students and an ever-changing world.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Boston, MA, US

Year founded

1839

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