Young Researchers and Postdocs with Climate Expertise

Since April 2025, the Wuppertal Institute has welcomed two new international guest researchers as part of the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation's International Climate Protection Fellowship. The young researchers from India and Mexico have extensive expertise in the fields of circular economy and sustainable mobility, and are strengthening the Institute's international research cooperation.

Tackling plastic waste – in a socially responsible and effective way

Raghuvir Raghav Das from Gurugram (India) is an economist specialising in sustainable development and circular economy. At the Wuppertal Institute, he will be conducting research in the Circular Economy Department on the use of plastic credits as an instrument for reducing plastic pollution, especially in countries of the Global South. He will also analyse how social aspects can be integrated into the design of such mechanisms. 

Raghav has a wide range of practical experience: He worked with rePurpose Global on GIZ-funded plastic projects in India and Kenya, analysed the recycling of solar panels in his master's thesis and developed strategies for recycling lithium-ion batteries. His previous work has often focused on the question of how local communities can be actively and fairly involved in environmental solutions.

At the Wuppertal Institute, Raghav will work closely with Prof. Dr. Henning Wilts, Giacomo Sebis and the CERECO project team, which is headed by Sören Steger. This collaboration will ensure a deeper and more extensive network with other research areas in the future.

Sustainable mobility – local thinking, global networking

Rocio Patricia Ruelas Fimbres from Mexico City is an environmental manager and mobility expert with many years of experience in subnational climate policy. Most recently, she worked for the city network ICLEI Mexico, where she co-developed the climate plan for the state of Sonora and promoted the switch to electric bus systems in urban areas.

At the Wuppertal Institute, Rocio will conduct research with Prof. Dr. Oliver Lah and Rosa Muñoz as part of the ACCESS project. The aim is to develop practical strategies to more closely interlink sustainable mobility, digital innovations and climate protection. The focus is on low-emission transport systems, new financing approaches and greater involvement of civil society.

Rocio's extensive experience in building interdisciplinary networks will be invaluable to the institute, contributing significantly to international mobility and climate policy.