CSEi Research Fellow University of Chicago in United States

The Climate Systems Engineering initiative (CSEi) at the University of Chicago is inviting applications for its 2027-29 cohort of CSEi Research Fellows. This is a two-year, full-time Research Fellow appointment for early career scholars interested in climate systems engineering and related areas across the sciences, humanities, social sciences, public policy, and law.

CSEi’s research scope includes open-system carbon removal, enhanced rock weathering, solar geoengineering, and interventions to reduce glacial ice loss. The program is designed to advance understanding of the benefits, risks, and governance of technologies that may reduce the impacts of accumulated greenhouse gases. Fellows will be embedded in a strong interdisciplinary research environment at the University of Chicago and will interact closely with faculty mentors and the wider CSEi community.

The fellowship is independent and highly collaborative: fellows will work with UChicago faculty mentors, but their research and funding are independent. Securing a faculty mentor in advance is strongly preferred, and applicants are encouraged to reach out early. Faculty from any discipline may serve as mentors, even without prior climate systems engineering experience. The initiative also highlights opportunities for collaboration across campus and expects fellows to participate actively in CSEi’s intellectual life. In-person engagement in the Chicago area is required.

Funding includes a $95,000 annual salary, dedicated workspace, and $10,000 per year for research and travel. The University of Chicago also provides a one-time $4,000 relocation payment, and the position is benefits eligible. Teaching is not required, though an optional teaching opportunity may be available in the second year depending on need and approval.

Applicants must have completed all requirements for a Ph.D. or other terminal degree appropriate to the field by the time of appointment. Preferred experience includes 0-3 years of professional experience and a strong early-career record. UChicago postdocs and UChicago terminal-degree recipients may apply if the proposed work is distinct from their prior PhD or postdoctoral research.

Applications must be submitted online through Interfolio by 11:59 PM Eastern Time on November 2, 2026. Required materials include a CV, a research statement (maximum two pages), a writing sample, two letters of reference, and the name of a UChicago faculty mentor or, if no mentor has been secured, a list of preferred faculty collaborators and an explanation.