Oeschger Centre for Climate Change Research

Investment thesis

The Oeschger Centre for Climate Change Research (OCCR) exists to advance interdisciplinary climate science at the University of Bern, bridging natural, social, and economic sciences to address climate change impacts and adaptation strategies. It serves as a hub for academic research, training, and policy-relevant science rather than a direct funding body for startups.

• Interdisciplinary Climate Science: Brings together 330 researchers from 17 institutes and 5 faculties to study climate system dynamics, impacts, and societal adaptation [1].
• Policy-Relevant Research: Focuses on translating climate science into actionable insights for adaptation and mitigation, including work on extreme events and urban climate [1].
• Academic Training: Runs the Graduate School of Climate Sciences, offering MSc and PhD programmes that train the next generation of climate scientists [2].
• International Collaboration: Engages in global research networks, including IPCC contributions and international campaigns like NAWDIC [1][2].

Credibility: The OCCR's mandate and research clusters are defined by the University of Bern's governing body and its own strategic publications [2].

Value add

The OCCR provides a world-class research environment, access to interdisciplinary expertise, and opportunities for collaboration with leading climate scientists. It offers credibility through its association with the University of Bern and its contributions to international bodies like the IPCC [2].

Fit verdict: Not a direct funding source for startups. Suitable for academic partnerships, research collaborations, or talent acquisition.

Founder diligence script:

• Does your startup need access to climate science expertise or research facilities?
• Are you interested in collaborating on research projects with OCCR researchers?
• Can you leverage the OCCR's network for policy engagement or scientific validation?

Portfolio focus

The OCCR's research portfolio includes studies on climate system dynamics, extreme events, urban climate, and climate impacts on ecosystems and society. Notable work includes research on atmospheric dynamics of hot spells [1], water resources in alpine watersheds [3], and climate law and society [1].