Research Associate-Climate Science

The Watershed Organisation Trust (WOTR) seeks a Research Associate in Climate Science based in Pune, India. The role involves analyzing climate data, assessing climate change impacts on agriculture and ecology, and collaborating on research projects. Candidates should have a PhD or Master's degree in relevant fields, strong analytical skills, and experience with climate datasets. The position requires excellent communication skills and a track record of research publications.
Research Associate - Climate Science

Location - Pune (On Site)

A little bit about who we are:

At WOTR, we are committed to tackling the key causes of rural poverty by rejuvenating ecosystems and building the community’s resilience to climate change by enhancing water availability, increasing land and agricultural productivity, diversifying livelihoods, empowering women, and strengthening the health and well-being of vulnerable rural communities.

WOTR brings together practitioners, academics, researchers, trainers, and policy makers to work collaboratively in building the resilience of rural communities. Our partners, including donors and government agencies stand resolutely behind us to affect this.

Over the course of 30 years, we have already made a significant impact, having worked in 10 states and 6,850 villages, and positively impacting the lives of 6.58 million people. We remain dedicated to continuing this important work and expanding our efforts to make an even greater difference in the lives of those we serve.

A brief snapshot of the role:

The Climate Analyst will review and evaluate scientific research and data to identify how shifts in climate will potentially affect Agriculture, Ecology and natural resources.

Principal accountabilities include:
• Collect and analyse data related to climate, climate change, extreme weather/climate events, and disasters.
• Assess the potential impact of climate change on various sectors such as agriculture, hydrology, ecology etc.
• Analyse and communicate weather information to the general audience.
• Support team for action and applied research projects.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to evaluate the effectiveness of current sustainable practices in changing climate.
• Write research publications in peer-reviewed journals.
• Communicate findings through reports/presentations to decision-makers, practitioners and the public in an easy-to-understand format.

Essential qualifications and skills:
• PhD or Master’s degree in Applied Statistics (with a focus on climate data analysis), Agricultural Meteorology, Agricultural Physics, Climate Science, Environmental Science, Geography, Disaster Management, or a related field, with minimum 3 years of experience in applied research.
• Strong knowledge of the intersectoral impacts of climate change, particularly on agriculture, hydrology, and ecology.
• Excellent research and analytical skills, with the ability to synthesize information from multiple sources and disciplines.
• Proven track record of publications in peer-reviewed journals.
• Hands-on experience in handling large climate datasets using R, Python, MATLAB, or similar tools, with expertise in statistical analysis and data visualization.
• Proficiency in GIS software and spatial analysis techniques.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex climate data clearly to diverse audiences.

Desirable Qualifications and Skills
• Experience in developing climate action plans, climate mitigation and adaptation strategies, and sustainability frameworks.
• Experience working in the disaster management field, specifically related to national resiliency and community-based DRR.
• Experience in writing project proposals and securing research funding.
• Strong background in both qualitative and quantitative data analysis.
• Experience working with NGOs, governmental bodies, or international climate organizations.