As Mineral/Geochemical Expert at the Kuehne Climate Center (KCC), you will be our go-to expert for all questions related to mineral resources, their raw materials, and their supply chains. As an in-house expert, you take on a creative and flexible role that allows you to lead your own activities as well as engage with a range of projects and work areas across the programs of the KCC. Potential topics you will advise on include mineral-based carbon dioxide removal (CDR) methods, resilience and sustainability of mineral supply chains, and critical mineral materials for the low-carbon transition. 

In addition to a technical background in geosciences, geochemistry or a related field, you bring in-depth industry experience, e.g., from the mining sector. You will work closely with the Program Leads and other KCC experts to shape program activities and drive unique and impactful insights for research, advisory, training, and implementation projects.  

The KCC is a new subsidiary of the Kühne Foundation and its mission is to accelerate climate-compatible development within and through logistics systems. We do this through applied research & thought leadership, project & advisory work, and training & capacity building, with a focus on countries of the Global South.  

KCC is a globally operating think & do tank with a headquarter team in Hamburg’s vibrant Hafencity. From here, we support all our projects, actively partnering with our regional teams and with institutions from around the world. 
 
In a small team with strong growth ambitions (4x in 4 years) you have the opportunity to shape a new institution from early on.

• Building collaborations and managing relationships with partners from different sectors (e.g., NGOs, universities, industry, supply chain actors, government)
• Understanding and mapping dynamics around the flow of materials in mineral supply chains, including procurement and last-mile logistics
• Developing long-term operational (e.g., distribution) and business models for mineral-dependent activities
• Writing and communicating complex ideas to reach diverse audiences 
• Working with an international and interdisciplinary team 

• Advanced degree (master’s or PhD) in a relevant natural or physical science
• 8+ years of professional experience
• Knowledge of mineral supply chains in the Eastern Africa region 
• Willingness to learn and take on new topics
• Track record of successful project activities 
• Interest in sustainability and climate action
• Proactive and independent work style
• Ability to connect with remote team and leadership
• Fluency in English and at least one other language
• Eligibility to work and live in Kenya
• Willingness to undertake site visits and work with local partners
• Willingness to travel occasionally within Kenya and internationally
• Knowledge of geochemical/mineral-based CDR processes such as enhanced rock weathering or ocean alkalinity enhancement an advantage
• Established network within the mining industry an advantage

• The Executive Team of the KCC 
• The regional and global teams of the KCC
• Individual project teams researching and implementing solutions 
• KCC Knowledge Center   
• KCC partners (academia, NGOs, government, business partners) 

• The opportunity to have impact on tackling the climate crisis  
• A high degree of creative freedom for developing new areas of work 
• High agility and speed of implementation 
• A stimulating and diverse range of work, as well as the provision of considerable resources for effective projects 
• Personal and professional growth driven by your own initiative and engagement 

The KCC is a subsidiary of the Kuehne Foundation in Schindellegi, Switzerland. Established in 1976 by the Kühne family and is one of the largest foundations in the German-speaking world. As an operational foundation based in Schindellegi, Switzerland, it is involved in the areas of logistics, medicine, culture and, since the beginning of 2023, climate action. The Foundation is independent, operational and international.

If you are interested in applying, please submit your application via e-mail to kuehne-foundation-jobs@m.personio.de or via the "Apply" Button by 6th July 2025. In case you have any questions about the role, please reach out to Ingrid Schulte, ingrid.schulte@kuehne-foundation.org. Find out more about our current projects and activities by accessing our LinkedIn page.