Postdoctoral Research Fellow - Forest Carbon Transition Risks in Southeast Asia

National University of Singapore; Singapore; On-site; SGD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

The Asia Research Institute at the National University of Singapore is hiring a full-time Research Fellow for the Carbon Governance in Southeast Asia project. This role focuses on critical research into forest carbon schemes, governance challenges, and risk mitigation strategies. The successful applicant will possess a relevant PhD and contribute to vital climate action initiatives.

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant field required.
• Knowledge of carbon governance and environmental finance preferred.
• Experience with digital tools and AI solutions is beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Examine legal, financial, and governance dimensions of forest carbon schemes.
• Evaluate potential transitions and disruptions in carbon projects.
• Explore risk mitigation strategies including digital tools.

Skills

Interest in forest governance

Interest in environmental finance

Education

PhD in relevant social or natural science

Job description

The Asia Research Institute (ARI) at the National University of Singapore (NUS) is seeking a talented and motivated Research Fellow to join a dynamic interdisciplinary team within the Carbon Governance in Southeast Asia (CGSEA) project.

As nations and corporations commit to net-zero targets, investments in forest carbon projects have surged. Southeast Asia, home to some of the world’s most carbon-dense ecosystems, has become a key arena for such climate action. However, these projects face growing transition risks—uncertainties stemming from shifting policy landscapes, market volatility, and technological disruption. If unaddressed, such risks could jeopardize climate goals, marginalize forest-dependent communities, and destabilize emerging carbon economies.

This role offers the opportunity to undertake cutting-edge research into these critical challenges. The successful applicant will examine the legal, financial, and governance dimensions of forest carbon schemes, evaluate potential disruptions, and explore innovative risk-mitigation strategies—including digital tools and AI-enabled solutions for transparency and benefit-sharing.

The position is full-time for 12 months from 1 August 2025 (or soon thereafter), with the possibility of extension. Candidates should hold a PhD in a relevant social or natural science and demonstrate interest in forest governance and/or environmental finance.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis from 1 July 2025.

Enquiries: Professor David Taylor | Email: [e-mail]