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USD 125 /hr

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Hire Dr. Maria C.

United States

USD 125 /hr

Climate Risk Expert | 15+ Years in Climate Tech & Federal Government | PhD |

Profile Summary

I am a climate science expert with more than 15 years of experience, specializing in climate risk analysis, product management, and translating complex scientific data into actionable insights. Currently, I am consulting with climate start-ups, drawing on a wealth of experience from my recent role as Principal Climate Scientist at Gro Intelligence. In this position, I managed the creation of 21 global climate peril products, led a high-performing team, worked across departments to define and achieve OKRs, and served as a subject matter expert on climate change, sustainability, and the integration of machine learning into climate models. I also provided actionable recommendations to senior leadership, ensuring that product offerings aligned with market needs.

Before my time at Gro, I contributed to the Union of Concerned Scientists, publishing 13 articles on climate change and advocating for science-based policy. I was also recognized by EcoWatch as one of the top women environmentalists of 2020. My early career at the National Park Service involved spearheading the Sea Level & Storm Surge project and managing coastal and wetland projects, overseeing technical reports, and providing expertise on asset exposure to climate risks.

As a US/UK dual citizen, I bring a global perspective and a strong foundation in both technical and leadership skills. I hold a Ph.D. in Geography, with research focused on paleoclimatology, specifically the Holocene climate and environmental history of Laguna Saladilla in the Dominican Republic. This deep academic background, combined with my extensive professional experience, fuels my passion for developing innovative climate solutions and helping organizations make informed, sustainable decisions in the face of climate change.

Core Competencies: Climate science & sustainability, environmental regulatory standards (TFCD, Scope 1-3 emissions), data analysis & visualization (ArcGIS, JIRA), project management & agile methodologies, strategic leadership, cross-functional team management, stakeholder engagement, mentorship & capacity building.

Subject Matter Expertise

Services

Writing

Writing Technical Writing, Copywriting, Creative Writing, Newswriting, Audio Transcription, General Proofreading & Editing

Work Experience

Principal Climate Scientist

Gro Intelligence

October 2020 - June 2024

Blogger

Union of Concerned Scientists

July 2019 - December 2020

Partner/Visiting Scientist

National Park Service

January 2012 - February 2019

Adjunct Professor

University of Tennessee

August 2011 - December 2011

Education

PhD Geography

University of Tennessee, Knoxville - United States

August 2007 - May 2011

MA Geography

University of Denver

September 2004 - June 2007

BSc Geography

Plymouth University

September 1999 - May 2003

Certifications

Certification details not provided.

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