26 January 2026

Photo: Niklas Wagner

Dr. Niklas Wagner is a postdoctoral researcher at the German Institute of Development and Sustainability (IDOS) and the University of Geneva, working on the politics of knowledge and power in global environmental governance. His research focuses on how legitimacy, inclusivity, and justice are negotiated within the Global Stocktake of the Paris Agreement and emerging review mechanisms under the Rio Conventions, combining perspectives from Science and Technology Studies, political sociology, and international climate policy.

He holds a PhD in Knowledge and Environmental Sociology from the University of Bonn , an MPhil in Environmental Policy from the University of Cambridge, and a BSc in Philosophy, Politics and Economics from Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam . His international academic experience includes visiting research stays at the University of Ghana, Universidade de São Paulo, and Ahmedabad University, as well as earlier study at the Indira Gandhi Institute for Development Research in Mumbai.

Alongside his academic work, Niklas has been active in climate governance and civil society both internationally as well as nationally. He is founder of the Bed-Exchange Platform and the Bonn Climate Camp, initiatives that strengthen participation, accessibility, and public engagement around global climate negotiations.

A warm welcome to the Centre, Niklas!