Quantitative Researcher

About the Role

We’re seeking a scientifically trained, quantitatively skilled researcher to support the calibration, validation, and application of process-based models for tracking biomass production, carbon sequestration, and soil organic matter dynamics across diverse land-use and management scenarios.

At SoilWatch, we operate at the intersection of science, climate finance and sustainable development, providing robust and cost-effective MMRV (Monitoring, Measurement, Reporting, and Verification) for nature-based solutions globally. Our work is grounded in deep ecological, social and economic insights into land use change and regenerative agriculture. We already have an operational MCMC-based calibration framework using the Metropolis-Hastings algorithm and are now looking for someone to help refine these models and scale the modeling pipeline. The ideal candidate brings strong quantitative modeling and programming skills, a rigorous scientific mindset, and a desire to make real-world environmental impact.

Your Responsabilities

• Calibrate and validate process-based models using MCMC (Metropolis-Hastings).
• Write, optimize, and debug model code primarily in R (or Python if needed).
• Interpret results in close collaboration with our scientific teams.
• Support model runs and helps develop automation pipelines as the platform scales.
• Help ensure scientific robustness of modelling outputs for climate and development stakeholders.

Required Qualifications

• Advanced programming skills in R (preferred) or Python.
• Solid scientific background - PhD or current PhD student in applied mathematics, data science, geoscience, environmental science, computational biology, or a related quantitative field.
• Ability to work independently and communicate well in a remote-first team.

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with process-based modeling, especially soil carbon, biomass production and other ecological models.
• Hands-on experience with Bayesian calibration and MCMC methods.
• Interest in climate finance and sustainable development

What We Offer

• Meaningful work in the climate and development space.
• Flexible part-time role (remote-first), with potential to grow into a full-time position.
• A chance to contribute to scientifically sound, field-ready models used by UN agencies, investors, and project developers around the world.
• A small, agile team where your ideas and work directly shape the product.

About Us

We’re a fast-growing climate tech company with offices in Helsinki and Nairobi, working with partners across Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Our mission is to unlock climate finance for land restoration by building robust yet accessible monitoring and verification tools to quantify carbon sequestration and ecosystem services.

To Apply

Send your CV, a brief cover letter (or a short paragraph introducing yourself), and links to any relevant code, publications, or projects to [email protected]