The Columbia Climate School at Columbia University in New York, NY, seeks applications from innovative, doctoral candidates or recent Ph.D., M.D., J.D., or Sc.D. recipients (within 3 years of degree receipt) interested in a broad range of issues in sustainable development.
The Columbia Climate School Postdoctoral Research program provides scholars with the opportunity to acquire and apply the cross-disciplinary expertise needed to address critical issues of sustainable development such as food security, energy systems, poverty reduction, disease, and environmental degradation. Candidates who have developed cross-disciplinary approaches during their graduate studies or who are interested in developing cross-disciplinary approaches during their post-doctoral training will find unique opportunities to engage in programs at the leading edge of sustainable development research.
Preferred and Required Qualifications
Qualifications
Candidates must have received their doctoral degrees (Ph.D., M.D., or J.D.) within three years prior to the start of the appointment. All doctoral requirements must be fulfilled and the degree awarded before the start of the program. Gaps in employment or studies will be considered on a case-by-case basis. The program is open to U.S. and non-U.S. citizens.
Columbia University policy only allows a cumulative maximum of five years in a postdoctoral position, whether held at or outside of the university.
If you have questions about the timing of your doctoral degree or prior postdoc experience, please contact postdocs@climate.columbia.edu to discuss your application.
Application Details (to apply use the Apply Now button below.)
Candidates must complete the online application and submit a proposal for research that would contribute to global, sustainable development. Candidates may suggest contributing to or expanding on existing Climate School programs or developing new projects that integrate the breadth of expertise of the Climate School and other research units. Candidates are strongly encouraged to identify and contact a mentor prior to applying. You can find possible mentors and projects on our website.
The deadline to submit an application is October 30, 2026, for 12-month appointments starting in the fall of 2027, with a possible extension of twelve more months, contingent on funding. The salary is $72,116.
For more information about the program, visit our site or email postdocs@climate.columbia.edu.
The program is open to U.S. and non-U.S. citizens. All doctoral requirements must be fulfilled, and the degree awarded within 3 years before the start of the appointment. Gaps in employment or studies will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Application Deadline
October 30, 2026