Researcher

We are seeking a researcher with experience in Nature-based Solutions implementation
and monitoring & evaluation to join our research team.

This is an exciting opportunity to be part of an ambitious mission to translate
cutting-edge science into practice. We work with a range of clients on how to tackle the most
critical issues of our time – climate change and biodiversity loss – whilst supporting
economic recovery. We are looking for a talented individual with comprehensive knowledge of
Nature-based Solutions and their implementation, primarily to support our work on establishing
monitoring & evaluation frameworks and to conduct due diligence assessments for investments
in Nature-based Solutions. 

Who we are

Nature-based Insights is a Social Venture spin out of the
University of Oxford’s Nature-based Solutions Initiative. Our vision is a transformed private
sector that is supporting thriving human and ecological communities globally. Drawing on the
University’s world-leading expertise and network, we help organisations set and achieve
socially just and credible Biodiversity and Net Zero goals by integrating Nature-based
Solutions and innovative science into their core operations, with integrity.

We are a passionate team of individuals spanning a broad range of research interests,
experiences and backgrounds. Typically, we work with large corporates and financial
institutions covering global supply chains and assets with large landscape-scale geographies.
We are driven by impact, and work with organisations who are serious about ensuring their
climate, biodiversity, social commitments and strategies are ambitious and credible.

The role 

This role will span two key pillars of our work – monitoring & evaluation for
nature-based landscape interventions, and due diligence assessments for investments in NbS
projects. Having a clear understanding of NbS and the technical considerations for
implementation and monitoring will be essential.

The role will require strong skills in qualitative analysis and synthesis combined with
comprehensive knowledge of NbS in order to make sound, independent judgements whilst conducting
due diligence or developing M&E solutions. Our project work is often fast paced and time
sensitive, so the right candidate will be a highly organised independent worker.

Your work will help build pragmatic M&E frameworks for projects which take into
account the specific local contexts of interventions, incorporating the latest science and
leveraging diverse monitoring technologies to maximise insights. It’s a critical part of our
working process with clients to ensure scientific integrity is upheld and assessment of impact
is robust. With our due diligence assessments, you’ll be making an assessment of integrity for
multi-million dollar NbS project proposals. This will require the synthesis of a large
portfolio of evidence, interviewing project developers and potentially making site visits to
locations across the world.

You will be joining Nature-based Insights at a pivotal time in our development, with a
real opportunity to have an impact on our direction and work – working alongside a passionate
network of colleagues, partners, clients, who share your mission and values.

Responsibilities will include:

• Working on client projects to build M&E frameworks and strategies for
  interventions, using experience and insights from academia.
• Conduct literature reviews relevant to monitoring and evaluation for specific
  landscapes.
• Provide recommendations for relevant indicators and technologies to employ in order
  to monitor and verify outcomes.
• Writing synthesis reports and briefings which contribute to M&E
  development.
• Conducting due diligence reviews on investments in nature-based solutions projects,
  including interviewing project developers and project site visits.
• Writing due diligence reports and presenting insights on project risks and
  recommendations.
• Attending client meetings to present findings, discuss results and make
  recommendations.

What we offer

• Salary: £32,000 – £34,000, depending on experience
• Remote first (UK based)
• 25 days annual leave, plus public holidays
• Pension with ethical portfolio 
• All equipment, including laptop, screen and peripherals
• Co-working budget
• Networking and collaboration opportunities at University of Oxford

Who we are looking for

We are looking for an independent researcher who would be interested in joining our
research team, to deliver innovative and high quality solutions for our clients operating and
investing in landscapes and supply chains across the world.

You’ll be joining a fast moving and expanding start-up, so this role will require
adaptability and an ability to spot opportunities which contribute to the business’
development. For the right candidate it’s an exciting opportunity to apply the latest science
to real world projects that help maximise positive outcomes for nature and people.

We are proud to support our employees in their career aspirations and for the right
candidate, and would be open to discussing how the role can be adapted or evolve to best suit
both parties – including part time or job share arrangements.

Skills, experience, qualifications

Essential

• PhD in environmental science/ecology/biodiversity, or an equivalent combination of
  education and experience.
• Excellent qualitative analysis, synthesis and writing skills.
• Experience in conducting or developing monitoring and evaluation for landscape
  intervention projects and project evaluation more generally.
• Strong understanding of technologies for monitoring biodiversity, their
  applications and costs.
• Experience of working with a team of researchers to project deadlines.
• Willingness to travel internationally.

Desirable

• International experience, particularly working with local communities and
  indigenous peoples in the context of NbS and landscape programmes.
• Experience in due diligence, especially in relation to biodiversity/nature
  investments.
• Experience of working within consultancy business.
• Understanding of social and economic impact monitoring and evaluation, as they
  relate to NbS and landscape programmes.
• Familiarity with the IUCN Global Standard for NbS and due diligence related
  frameworks such as the IFC Performance Standards.
• Experience in research interviews and stakeholder consultations.
• Proficient in any languages relevant to client NbS projects – Spanish, French,
  Bahasa, Thai.

How to apply

Please send your CV and covering letter to [email protected]

Nature-based Insights is committed to equality and value diversity. We particularly
encourage application of women and those that come from minority backgrounds.

Closing date for applications is midday 2nd February 2024. Please note – we are looking
to fulfil this post as soon as possible and will review applications on a rolling
basis.