Policy Analyst - Nature Activation Hub & Climate Resilience, The Nicholas Institute

Duke University:

Duke University was created in 1924 through an indenture of trust by James Buchanan Duke. Today, Duke is regarded as one of America's leading research universities. Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke is positioned in the heart of the Research Triangle, which is ranked annually as one of the best places in the country to work and live. Duke has more than 15,000 students who study and conduct research in its 10 undergraduate, graduate and professional schools. With about 40,000 employees, Duke is the third largest private employer in North Carolina, and it now has international programs in more than 150 countries.

Be You. Be Bold. Choose Duke.

Be You.

At Duke, we celebrate individuality and the unique perspectives that each member of our community brings. As the Policy Analyst - Nature Activation Hub & Climate Resilience, you'll join a collaborative team at the Nicholas Institute for Energy, Environment & Sustainability. You'll work alongside experts in policy, finance, law, engineering, and ecology to advance nature-based solutions and climate resilience initiatives that make a real impact.

Be Bold.

The Nicholas Institute and its Nature Activation Hub are committed to actionable research and purposeful partnerships that overcome barriers and identify opportunities to advance sustainability. This role supports Duke's Climate Commitment and engages with federal and state agencies, land trusts, conservation organizations, and networks to seed growing capacity in nature-based solutions.

What You'll Do:

• Research & Analysis:
  Perform literature reviews, geospatial analysis (GIS), and statistical analysis. Draft policy briefs, white papers, blog posts, and peer-reviewed publications on nature-based solutions and climate resilience topics.
• Project Management & Coordination:
  Plan, implement, and coordinate activities to execute assigned elements of projects. Track progress toward milestones, report to funders, manage budgets, and mentor student assistants. Collaborate with senior researchers and faculty to ensure strong team relationships and workflow improvements.
• Convening & Event Planning:
  Coordinate and support public and expert convenings such as workshops, roundtables, and stakeholder meetings. Prepare topic-focused research, analysis, and materials for stakeholder review. Manage logistics and communication strategies in partnership with events and communications teams.
• Stakeholder Engagement:
  Act as liaison for project participants, faculty, and external partners. Coordinate activities with industry representatives and policy professionals to advance project deliverables.

Choose Duke.

We're looking for candidates with:

• A Bachelor's degree in a related field (Master's preferred).
• 2+ years of experience in policy, research, or data analysis (3-4 years preferred).
• Skills in systematic literature review, data interpretation, and social science or economic analysis.
• Experience with ArcGIS Pro and familiarity with hydrologic or ecological models.
• Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.

At Duke, you'll enjoy competitive pay (anticipated range: $59,829-$96,509), comprehensive benefits, and a culture built on collaboration, innovation, and belonging. Learn more at https://hr.duke.edu/benefits/.

Ready to Make a Difference?

Apply now and help us build a stronger, smarter, and more connected future.