Scientist (f/m/x) Climate Adaptation Funding and Case Studies in Ukraine

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.

Contact

Your contact for any questions you may have about the job:
Oleksandr Sushchenko

oleksandr.sushchenko[at]ufz.de

Tel.: 017628678801

Your application

To ensure a fair selection process, please submit your application (cover letter, CV, and relevant supporting documents) via our online portal without a photo, age information, or details about your marital status.

Diversity and Inclusion

The UFZ values diversity and is actively committed to ensuring equal opportunities for all employees, regardless of their origin, religion, beliefs, disability, age or sexual identity.
We welcome people who represent diverse backgrounds, identities and perspectives. We therefore particularly encourage people who are affected by structural discrimination to apply to us.

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

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

Apply now

Application deadline: 17.10.2026

More information about jobs at the UFZ:
www.ufz.de/career