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UNIVERSITY OF READING

THE PEARL

An interdisciplinary research group appointed by the WMO World Climate Research Programme to pioneer ‘My Climate Risk’ adaptation and risk research

Reducing climate and conflict-related risks through evidence-led adaptation

ABOUT US

The Pearl, located within the University of Reading’s Department of Meteorology, is a global leader in climate risk and adaptation research. We focus on understanding the complex impacts of climate change and building resilience in vulnerable communities worldwide. Through interdisciplinary research, we integrate climate science with socio-economic and environmental models, providing innovative solutions that bridge the gap between science and practical, real-world action.

We are committed to producing actionable insights that help decision-makers—from local communities to global policymakers—navigate the challenges of a rapidly changing climate. Our unique interdisciplinary framework combines quantitative and qualitative research to fill gaps in both the physical and social sciences, ensuring that local knowledge and participation are central to adaptation design and implementation.

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OUR RESEARCH

Our work spans methodological innovation, policy advising, community engagement, and capacity building, empowering governments, international organizations, and local communities to address climate risks. We are proud to have been appointed as a global hub for the WMO-WCRP My Climate Risk initiative, recognizing our pioneering role in advancing integrated climate risk science and adaptation strategies.

Image: raq_drought-afflicted_Central_Marshes _2022_ASAAD_NIAZI by Getti Images

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21 Nov Students in the studio d

CAPACITY BUILDING AND TRAINING

At the heart of our mission is our Academy, which plays a key role in building the next generation of climate science and policy leaders. The Academy offers cutting-edge training and development programs, designed to equip early-career researchers, practitioners, and policymakers with the skills needed to lead on climate action and adaptation. Through these programs, we foster the growth of scientific and policy literacy, ensuring that the next wave of climate professionals is well-prepared to meet the challenges ahead.

Image: Walker Academy session. ©Walker Institute

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OUR NETWORK

Our global network of researchers, spanning fields including meteorology, agriculture, hydrology, economics, social sciences, and policy, collaborates with governments, NGOs, and academic institutions. This collaborative approach ensures that our research is both scientifically rigorous and locally relevant, driving effective adaptation and resilience-building across Africa, Asia, the Americas, and beyond.
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Together, we are combining climate science and livelihoods to make local risk visible and inform equitable adaptation and policy through community-driven insight

Theo

“The work of the Walker Institute is really crucial and truly motivating. The fact that they have chosen not to stay in an ivory tower, but actually say, “What is it that people are asking for? What is it that people need”, and then taking the steps to make sure that their knowledge and their work meets those demands, is an enormous step forward.”

 

Theo Sowa

CEO, African Women’s Development Fund

Charlotte

“I found the project to be very comprehensive, involving all relevant stakeholders, and bringing them together under one roof, which helped in understanding the mandates of the various institutions, academia, agencies and organisations regarding ground water.  It has given me a proper understanding of groundwater and the risks associated with it if proper policies and laws are not put in place and adhered to.  The country as a whole stands to gain a lot from the BRAVE project.”

 

Charlotte Norman

Director: Climate Change Adaptation & Disaster Risk Reduction, Ghana (2020)

Gatkuoth

“The expert advice from the Walker’s team was instrumental in shaping the discussion which culminated into the development of the inaugural Africa Report on Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2018. Working with the Walker’s team has been an enriching experience for me and my team. I am impressed by their level of professionalism and commitment to disaster risk management efforts in Africa.”

 

Gatkuoth Kai Bol

Department for Rural Economy and Agriculture, African Union Commission, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Hannah & Hannah

“For the Lorna Young Foundation, partnering with the Walker Institute on the  BRAVE and NIMFRU projects has provided and invaluable opportunity to adapt out RFRMER’s Voice Radio methodology to benefit climate vulnerable communities….  Thanks to the impact that we have achieved through these collaborations, the Lorna Young Foundation has been able to leverage further funding from donors such as UK Aid Direct to take Farmers’ Voice Radio to the next level and launch it as an ‘open source concept’, potentially benefiting millions of smallholder farmers around the world.    

…working with the Walker Institute has been a great pleasure.  The team are extremely approachable, professional and highly responsive and adaptable….whilst also maintaining academic rigour to their research projects.  “

 

Hannah Clark and Hannah Davis

Famer Radio Development Managers, Lorna Young Foundation, UK

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