Climate School Postdoctoral Research Program
Application Deadline:
31 October 2025
About Organisation
Established in 2020, the Columbia Climate School leads the charge in addressing the climate crisis and advancing sustainability. Its mission is to foster a world where both people and the planet can thrive. Driven by a vision of a just, resilient, and environmentally sustainable future, the School emphasizes inclusive, science-based approaches to climate action.
The Climate School represents a unique convergence of expertise from across Columbia University. Its work spans research, education, innovation, and policy, targeting the complex interplay between reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting equitable climate resilience. It unites scholars, scientists, educators, and policy experts to co-create practical and long-lasting solutions for global climate and sustainability challenges.
Through its academic programs, research centers, and global partnerships, the Columbia Climate School nurtures innovation and prepares future leaders to respond to environmental and social disruptions. Its bold and collaborative ethos empowers communities to transition toward sustainability while addressing systemic inequalities. In doing so, the School strengthens its commitment to planetary health, social justice, and scientific excellence in confronting one of the most pressing challenges of our time.
About the Grant
The Climate School Postdoctoral Research Program at Columbia University supports cutting-edge research that tackles climate change and related global sustainability issues. This prestigious fellowship is designed for early-career scholars who aim to deepen scientific and societal understanding of climate challenges and actively contribute to solutions.
Fellows in the program collaborate with renowned mentors and multidisciplinary teams across Columbia’s Climate School, including Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory, Columbia University Medical Center, and affiliated departments. The fellowship emphasizes transdisciplinary approaches, uniting scientific inquiry with social, technological, and policy perspectives.
The program offers a dynamic and supportive research environment, enabling postdoctoral scholars to explore pressing climate topics, build leadership skills, and influence the future of climate action. Fellows develop their own research agenda, receive mentorship from senior faculty, and participate in academic and professional development activities.
This program is ideal for individuals with a strong interest in innovative research and a commitment to addressing critical issues in climate science and sustainable development. It is globally recognized as a premier opportunity for postdoctoral researchers dedicated to advancing climate knowledge and driving impactful change.
Who can Apply?
Applicants for the Climate School Postdoctoral Research Program must have completed a doctoral degree (Ph.D., M.D., or J.D.) within three years prior to the start of their appointment. All degree requirements, including dissertation submission and defense, must be fulfilled before the appointment begins.
Candidates from all academic disciplines related to climate and sustainable development are welcome. The program values interdisciplinary perspectives and encourages applications from researchers committed to collaborative, solution-driven work. While the fellowship is open to both U.S. and non-U.S. citizens, candidates currently holding a position ranked above that of a postdoctoral researcher are not eligible under university policy.
Those who are currently in a postdoctoral role are advised to contact the program office to verify eligibility. Columbia University strongly supports diversity, equity, and inclusion; hence, women, underrepresented minorities, and individuals from diverse backgrounds are highly encouraged to apply. The fellowship provides a unique platform for scholars to engage with Columbia’s network of experts, while benefiting from mentorship, professional development, and research support.
Successful applicants will demonstrate excellence in their academic background, the potential for impactful research, and a clear commitment to addressing climate-related challenges through interdisciplinary collaboration.
How to Apply?
To apply, candidates must submit an online application including a CV, a brief personal history, a detailed research proposal, and three recommendation letters. Applicants are also encouraged to reach out to at least two potential faculty mentors at Columbia University. While faculty endorsements are welcome, they do not ensure selection. All application materials must be completed by the specified deadline.
Application Deadline
Applications for the Climate School Postdoctoral Research Program must be submitted by Friday, October 31, 2025, no later than 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time.
Last Date To Apply
The final date to apply for the Columbia Climate School’s Postdoctoral Fellowship is October 31, 2025, with a strict submission deadline of 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time.
Grant Amount
The grant provides a fully-funded postdoctoral position, including salary, research support, and access to Columbia University’s extensive resources, enabling fellows to pursue independent research and professional growth.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
