Future Leaders Programme
Future Leaders Programme
The Future Leaders Programme , run in collaboration with Cambridge Zero, offers current and recent undergraduate students paid project assistant placements on projects relating to climate, sustainability, and environmental science.
Each year, participants work on high-impact projects hosted by us and partner organisations, gaining valuable professional experience and skills to support their future careers. The programme also includes tailored development, career exploration, networking opportunities, and coaching.
CLR focuses on improving diversity and inclusion in environmental sciences and promoting the field as a career path, funded by UKRI NERC in line with their Diversity & Inclusion Living Action Plan.
Future Leaders Programme 2025
Programme dates: 14 July – 12 September 2025
In collaboration with Cambridge Zero, the School of Clinical Medicine, Biological Sciences, and the Future Homes Hub, eight paid project assistant positions were offered in 2025.
The two CLR placements for 2025 were:
- Fenland Plant Project Assistant – Joseph de Laubenque, working with Jérémy Fonvielle
- Fenland Biodiversity Project Assistant – Ellie Moscrop, working with Neil Mahon
Link to article about the participants in 2025 HERE
Future Leaders Programme 2024
Programme dates: 15 July – 13 September 2024
Seven project assistants contributed to research exploring nature-based solutions to regenerate the British countryside. Full details here.
This work focused on cost-effective solutions that support biodiversity recovery, climate mitigation, and adaptation.
Roles placed within the CLR
- Fenland Biodiversity (Beetles) Project Assistant
- Fenland Biodiversity (Pollinators) Project Assistant
- Landscape Scenario Modelling Project Assistant (Scotland) – two roles
- Scottish Forests (Tree Biomass) Project Assistant
- Scottish Forests (Root Biomass) Project Assistant
- Scottish Peatlands Project Assistant
CLR collaborated with project assistants to document their work in Fieldnotes from Future Leaders. View the special edition newsletter.
Future Leaders Programme 2023
Nine researchers participated in the 2023 programme, working for eight weeks on diverse climate and environmental projects.
Topics included the impact of farming styles on biodiversity, greenhouse gas mechanisms, soil chemistry, educational resource creation, and mapping 500+ climate-related projects across the university.
Participants developed undergraduate learning materials, communication resources, and social media content, and contributed significant field data.
“Their efforts not only made immediate impacts but may also contribute to future publications and research impact,” said Helen Driver from CLR.