In the battle against climate change, researchers and academics may work behind the scenes, but their impact is transformative. They are the creators of new technologies, authors of key studies, and visionaries shaping global policy. As 2024 progresses, Climate Insider highlights the scholars driving the climate conversation forward. This article introduces the professors and researchers whose work is crucial for navigating our climate future.
Climate science fuels climate tech innovation by turning complex data into practical solutions. It translates scientific insights into actionable knowledge, enabling policymakers and businesses to develop informed, effective strategies. Essentially, climate science bridges the gap between understanding and real-world climate action.
The urgency of climate action in the 21st century is immense. As climate impacts escalate, the time for meaningful intervention is shrinking. Immediate action is crucial to mitigate severe consequences, protect ecosystems, and secure a livable future. This century requires a global effort to reduce emissions and innovate, ensuring resilience against a changing climate.
Closing the science-practice gap is vital for effective climate action. Scientific research provides the necessary knowledge and tools, but these must be translated into practical solutions. Bridging this gap ensures that innovations and policies are grounded in the latest science, making climate solutions more timely and effective.
Advancing the low-carbon transition requires targeted research in several key areas, each vital for different aspects of climate action. Climate Finance & Sustainable Business explores how financial mechanisms and sustainable business models can drive the transition, ensuring that economic growth aligns with environmental stewardship. Climate Modeling and Prediction provides the scientific foundation for effective decision-making by offering accurate forecasts that guide policy and planning. Climate Change Impacts and Adaptation focuses on building resilience by understanding vulnerabilities and developing strategies to protect both communities and ecosystems. Lastly, Energy Systems & Transition is crucial for decarbonizing our energy infrastructure, driving innovations that make renewable energy more accessible, efficient, and integrated into our global energy systems.
Climate Finance & Sustainable Business
Following academics in climate finance and business are contributing to climate action through examining financial mechanisms and business models:
- George Serafeim, Professor of Business Administration at Harvard Business School
About George Serafeim
George Serafeim, the Charles M. Williams Professor of Business Administration at Harvard Business School, stands out as a leading authority on climate finance and sustainable business. With a distinguished academic background that includes a Doctor of Business Administration from Harvard, a Master’s in Accounting and Finance from the London School of Economics, and a Bachelor’s in Banking and Financial Management from the University of Piraeus, Serafeim combines deep financial expertise with a passionate focus on sustainability. His extensive research spans over 100 published articles and business cases, addressing the intricacies of sustainability measurement, management, and governance. Serafeim’s work critically examines how integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors into business strategy can drive value creation and societal impact. His influential book, “Purpose + Profit,” and his advisory roles in purpose-driven organizations underscore his commitment to aligning business practices with positive societal outcomes. Through his scholarly contributions and practical engagements, Serafeim continues to shape the discourse on how businesses can leverage sustainability as a key driver of financial and social performance.
- Ryan Riordan, Director of Research (Institute for Sustainable Finance) and Professor at Queen’s University
About Ryan Riordan
Ryan Riordan is a prominent figure in the field of climate finance and sustainable business, currently serving as a Professor at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München and the Smith School of Business at Queen’s University. His academic journey includes a Doctor of Philosophy in Finance from the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology and an MBA from Carleton University. Riordan’s career highlights include his role as Research Director for the Institute for Sustainable Finance, where he has been recognized for his impactful work on integrating climate considerations into financial practices. His research, which has been featured in top finance journals such as the Journal of Finance and the Journal of Financial Economics, focuses on how financial innovation and technology can drive sustainability. His recent recognition as a Changemaker by the Globe and Mail and the receipt of the Bank of Canada Governor’s Award underscore his contributions to advancing climate finance. At Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Riordan leads the Institute of Financial Innovation and Technology, furthering his commitment to leveraging finance for environmental and social betterment.
3. Johannes Stroebel, Professor of Finance; Director of Climate Finance Initiative at NYU Stern School of Business
About Johannes Stroebel
Johannes Stroebel, the David S. Loeb Professor of Finance at NYU Stern School of Business and director of the Climate Finance Initiative, is a leading authority in climate finance and economic research. Recognized for his groundbreaking work, Stroebel received the 2023 Fischer Black Prize and has been honored with the AQR Asset Management Institute Young Researcher Prize and the Brattle Award. His research spans climate finance, macroeconomics, and social network analysis, and he plays a pivotal role in shaping financial risk management strategies related to climate change. With a strong academic background from Oxford and Stanford, Stroebel’s expertise extends to influential advisory roles, including contributions to the CFTC’s Climate-Related Market Risk Subcommittee and the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology. His work continues to drive significant advancements in how financial markets address environmental challenges.
4. Florian Heeb, Assistant Professor for Sustainable Finance
About Florian Heeb
Florian Heeb, currently an Assistant Professor for Sustainable Finance at both the Leibniz Institute for Financial Research SAFE and Goethe University Frankfurt, is a prominent figure in the field of sustainable finance. His academic journey includes a Ph.D. in Banking and Finance from the University of Zurich and a Master’s in Environmental Science from ETH Zurich. Previously, Heeb was a Postdoctoral Associate at MIT Sloan School of Management, contributing to the MIT Sloan Sustainability Initiative. He also serves on the Board of Directors for ESG-AM and has been involved with Cape Capital’s ESG Advisory Committee. His research integrates finance with sustainability, reflecting his strong background in environmental science and finance.
Climate Modeling and Prediction
Following academics and researchers are creating and improving climate modeling and prediction mechanisms:
- John Robinson, Professor at University of Toronto
About John Robinson
John Robinson is a leading academic in climate modeling and prediction, serving as a Professor at the Munk School for Global Affairs and the School of the Environment at the University of Toronto. He also holds the position of Presidential Advisor on the Environment, Climate Change, and Sustainability. With an extensive background that includes his tenure at the University of British Columbia and the University of Waterloo, Robinson’s research is deeply interdisciplinary, focusing on the integration of climate change mitigation, adaptation, and sustainability. His work emphasizes the application of visualization and modeling techniques to forecast sustainable futures, and he is dedicated to fostering partnerships across various sectors to drive impactful climate solutions.
- Idil Boran, Professor of Applied Environmental Governance at York University
About Idil Boran
Idil Boran is a prominent scholar in the realm of global climate governance and environmental policy, serving as the Lead Researcher at the Synergies of Planetary Health Research Initiative & Lab, Dahdaleh Institute for Global Health Research at York University.As a Professor of Applied Environmental Governance and Coordinator of the Certificate Program in Practical Ethics, she focuses on advanced climate modeling techniques and their application to global climate governance. Her research includes examining the intersections of climate adaptation, nature-based solutions, and environmental multilateralism, contributing valuable insights into how these models can influence and improve international climate policies and actions. Boran’s role as Associate Director of CIFAL York and her affiliation with the German Development Institute underscore her global perspective and commitment to leveraging climate models for effective policy and governance solutions.
- Laxmi Sushama, Professor, Trottier Chair in Sustainability in Engineering and Design at McGill University
About Laxmi Sushama
Laxmi Sushama is a leading expert in climate modeling and prediction, with a particular focus on the intersection of climate, engineering, and sustainability. As the Trottier Chair in Sustainability in Engineering and Design at McGill University, she leads research in high-resolution engineering-climate modeling for both urban and Arctic environments. Her work integrates complex Arctic climate and engineering processes into climate models, significantly advancing regional climate modeling applications for cold regions. Sushama’s contributions have been pivotal in shaping the research agenda for climate resilience in Canada. She also serves as the Canada Research Chair in Regional Climate Modelling and leads the Canadian Network for Regional Climate and Weather Processes, reflecting her influential role in the field.
4. Katharine Hayhoe, Professor at Texas Tech University
About Katharine Hayhoe
Dr. Katharine Hayhoe is a prominent atmospheric scientist specializing in climate modeling and prediction. With a B.Sc. in Physics and Astronomy from the University of Toronto and an MS and PhD in Atmospheric Science from the University of Illinois, her research focuses on developing high-resolution climate projections to assess the impacts of climate change on society and the natural environment. She has significantly contributed to the U.S. National Climate Assessments and has worked extensively with various entities to integrate climate science into practical planning. Currently, she serves as the Chief Scientist at The Nature Conservancy and is a Distinguished Professor at Texas Tech University.
Climate Change Impacts and Adaptation
Following academics are contributing adaptation solutions by examining resilience-building.
- Katrina Kelly-Pitou, Adjunct Professor of Energy, Science, Technology, and Policy at Carnegie Mellon University
About Katrina Kelly-Pitou
Katrina Kelly-Pitou is a renowned academic and practitioner in climate change adaptation and resilient infrastructure design. As an Adjunct Professor at Carnegie Mellon University, she teaches energy storage and transport, with a focus on comparing centralized and decentralized infrastructures. In her current role as Director of Climate Change Economics and Adaptation at SmithGroup, she leads efforts on systems integration and decentralized infrastructure design, particularly microgrids and electrification projects. Her expertise extends to optimizing environmental, economic, and equitable aspects of infrastructure. Previously, she managed energy research portfolios at the University of Pittsburgh and led resilience research at the World Energy Council. Kelly-Pitou holds a PhD in Economics and Politics from the University of Nottingham, where she examined climate governance and policy impacts.
- Maryam Robati, Associate Professor and Senior Researcher in Climate Change and Sustainability at York University and Islamic Azad University.
About Maryam Robati
Maryam Robati is a dedicated academic and researcher specializing in urban resilience and climate change adaptation. As an Associate Professor at Islamic Azad University, she advances knowledge in sustainable urban ecosystems through impactful research and dynamic teaching. Currently, she is a Research Scholar at York University, where she explores strategies for cities to adapt and thrive amid environmental challenges. Robati’s previous experience includes her role as a Senior Environmental and Sustainability Consultant at RAH SHAHR, where she provided expert insights into sustainable practices and life cycle assessments. Her extensive background in both academia and consulting is complemented by a Ph.D. in Environment and Sustainability, equipping her to contribute significantly to the discourse on urban resilience.
- Aitazaz A Faooque, Professor & Interim Associate Dean at University of Prince Edward Island
About Aitazaz A Farooque
Dr. Aitazaz A. Farooque is a prominent expert in climate adaptation, serving as Professor and Associate Dean at the School of Climate Change and Adaptation at the University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI), where he also leads the Centre of Excellence in Food Security and Sustainability. His research focuses on pioneering climate-smart agriculture technologies to enhance soil health, increase farm profitability, and mitigate environmental risks in Canadian agriculture. Recognized among Canada’s top researchers, Dr. Farooque has received significant accolades, including the NSERC Discovery Accelerator Supplement Research Grant and several prestigious awards. With over $8 million in research funding and a prolific publication record, his work is instrumental in advancing sustainable agricultural practices and climate adaptation strategies.
- Chao Fan, Assistant Professor at Clemson University
About Chao Fan
Dr. Chao Fan is an Assistant Professor in the School of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Earth Sciences at Clemson University, where he focuses on climate change adaptation through innovative AI and big data solutions. With a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering from Texas A&M University, Dr. Fan’s research is centered on the urban nexus—developing transformative approaches to enhance urban sustainability, resilience, and equity. He introduced the concept of “integrated intelligence” to address the challenges cities face due to climate change and infrastructure dynamics. His work aims to improve community resilience by understanding risk mechanisms, redesigning urban environments, and advancing adaptive capabilities. Dr. Fan’s contributions have significant implications for creating more resilient urban systems in the face of climate change.
- Andrew Quinn, Professor of Climate Adaptation; Director of Education at University of Birmingham
About Andrew Quinn
Professor Andrew Quinn at the University of Birmingham is a leading expert in climate adaptation, focusing on enhancing resilience to environmental changes and extreme weather events. As the Director of Education in the College of Engineering & Physical Sciences, he integrates mathematical, physical, and biological sciences to advance high-impact research in resilience, sustainability, and adaptation. His work spans vehicle aerodynamics and broader resilience strategies, combining multidisciplinary approaches to tackle climate-related challenges. Through his leadership, Professor Quinn aims to drive innovation in how societies adapt to climate change, ensuring both scientific advancement and practical application in the face of environmental uncertainties.
Energy Systems & Transition
Following academics are focusing on the energy transition through examining energy systems and sources, and researching innovations in decarbonization:
- Jatin Nathwani, Professor and Ontario Research Chair in Public Policy for Sustainable Energy at University of Waterloo
About Jatin Nathwani
Jatin Nathwani is a distinguished academic and researcher with a focus on the energy transition and global energy poverty. He serves as the founding Executive Director of the Waterloo Institute for Sustainable Energy (WISE) and holds the Ontario Research Chair in Public Policy for Sustainable Energy at the University of Waterloo. His research emphasizes the development and deployment of clean energy technologies, with particular attention to innovative solutions like flexible micro-grids for rural and remote areas. Nathwani co-directs the Global Change Initiative’s ‘Affordable Energy for Humanity’ (AE4H), aiming to eradicate global energy poverty through scientific and technological advancements. His extensive experience includes roles as Senior Advisor at the Ontario Power Authority and corporate strategy positions at Hydro One. He has a PhD in Engineering from the University of Toronto and has published over 100 works on energy and risk management.
- John Barrett, Professor & Chair in Energy and Climate Policy at University of Leeds
About John Barrett
John Barrett is a prominent scholar in energy and climate policy, holding a Chair at the Sustainable Research Institute (SRI) at the University of Leeds. His research focuses on sustainable consumption and production (SCP) modeling, carbon accounting, and low-carbon transitions. Barrett has advised the UK Government on carbon footprint standards and is responsible for the headline indicator for “Consumption-based Emissions.” He also collaborates with the Committee on Climate Change and has contributed to setting future emission goals for the UK. An accomplished public speaker and media commentator, Barrett has presented to Government Select Committees and regularly features on Radio 4. With over a decade of experience managing research projects and teams, he has published 22 peer-reviewed papers and serves as a lead author for the IPCC’s Working Group III. His academic background includes a PhD in Ecological Economics from Liverpool John Moores University and an MSc in European Environmental Regulation from Lancaster University.
- Adam Simon, Professor of Energy and Mineral Resources at University of Michigan
About Adam Simon
Adam Simon is a leading expert in energy transition research, focusing on the intricate dynamics of energy and mineral resources. As a Professor of Energy and Mineral Resources at the University of Michigan, Simon directs research on the supply chains of both fossil and renewable energy, including battery electric vehicles. His work encompasses the impacts of these supply chains on less developed countries and indigenous communities, drawing from his extensive research across seven continents and 40 countries. Simon has co-authored the influential book Mineral Resources, Economics and the Environment and published over 100 papers in the field. His research addresses the sustainable management of mineral resources essential for modern technology and renewable energy, emphasizing the balance between resource extraction and recycling. He is also the CEO of VectOres, where he continues to drive advancements in understanding and managing mineral resources.
4. Benjamin Sovacool, Professor of Earth and Environment at Boston University
About Benjamin Sovacool
Dr. Benjamin K. Sovacool is a prominent figure in the field of energy transition, currently serving as a Professor of Earth and Environment at Boston University and the Director of the Institute for Global Sustainability. His research and consultancy work center on critical issues like renewable energy, energy efficiency, and the politics surrounding large-scale energy infrastructure. Sovacool has made significant contributions to understanding the ethics of energy decisions and designing public policies that enhance energy security and access. As a Lead Author for the IPCC’s Sixth Assessment Report, he continues to be a highly cited researcher, particularly noted for his work on the controversies in energy policy and climate change.
5. Jochen Markard, Senior Researcher at the Zurich University of Applied Sciences
About Jochen Markard
Dr. Jochen Markard is a distinguished scholar in sustainability transitions, serving as a Privatdozent at ETH Zurich and a senior researcher at the Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW). With a PhD in innovation studies and a background in electrical engineering and energy economy, his research delves into the large-scale sectoral changes needed to shift energy and transport systems towards more sustainable modes of production and consumption. Markard’s work examines the complex interplay between technological innovation, actor strategies, policy, and institutional change, drawing on insights from multiple disciplines, including political science and management studies. His recent research focuses on critical topics such as net-zero transitions, decarbonizing challenging industries, and the politics of sustainability transitions, with his findings published in leading journals like Nature Energy, Science, and Energy Policy.
6. Jessica Jewell, Associate Professor at Chalmers University of Technology & University of Bergen
About Jessica Jewell
Dr. Jessica Jewell is an Associate Professor at both Chalmers University of Technology and the University of Bergen, where she specializes in the feasibility of climate action and the dynamics of energy transitions. Leading an ERC Starting Grant project and multiple work packages in collaborative research funded by European and Swedish agencies, her interdisciplinary approach integrates innovation, economics, and policy to quantify the mechanisms driving large-scale shifts toward sustainable energy systems. Dr. Jewell actively collaborates with multi-stakeholder groups, including the International Energy Agency and the UN Secretary General’s Sustainable Energy for All Task Force, effectively bridging the gap between scientific research and practical application. Her influential work, published in prestigious journals such as Nature Energy and Energy Policy, focuses on critical topics like coal phase-out policies and the economics of difficult-to-decarbonize industries. Passionate about scholarly writing and data visualization, Dr. Jewell is dedicated to enhancing both the academic and practical understanding of energy transitions, making significant contributions to the field of sustainability and climate action.
7. Christian Breyer, Professor for Solar Economy at LUT University
About Christian Breyer
Dr. Christian Breyer is a Professor of Solar Economy at LUT University in Finland, where he specializes in the technological and economic aspects of renewable energy systems. Renowned for his expertise in energy system modeling, Dr. Breyer’s work focuses on developing 100% renewable energy solutions on both local and global scales, with his team leading the field in publishing studies on this topic for countries and major regions worldwide. His research includes integrated sector analyses covering power, heat, transport, desalination, industry, and negative CO2 emissions, with a particular emphasis on Power-to-X technologies. With over 400 scientific publications, including more than 200 journal articles, Dr. Breyer has made significant contributions to the understanding of energy transitions, evidenced by his impressive citation record and high h-index scores on Scopus and Google Scholar. Before his academic tenure, he worked at Reiner Lemoine Institut and Q-Cells (now Hanwha Q Cells). He is also deeply involved in various international energy initiatives, including ETIP PV, IEA-PVPS, and the Energy Watch Group, and serves on several scientific advisory boards. Dr. Breyer is a co-founder of the Desertec Foundation and an active voice in the renewable energy community, engaging with audiences on platforms like Bluesky and Twitter.
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