Rachael McDonnell

Bio

Rachael McDonnell is Deputy Director General, Research and Development, IWMI with more than 25 years’ experience in developing knowledge and innovation for adaptation to climate extremes, water and food insecurity under a changing climate in Africa and Asia.
She is the strategic lead for a global team of 220 scientists focused on innovative and scientifically rigorous solutions for critical climate, water, food and energy challenges in the Global South. 
She developed strong collaborations with partners across research, governments, investors and the private sector bringing their knowledge, models and insight together in adaptation solutions.

She has extensive change management experience, executive decision-making and division leadership capabilities. She has diverse experience as a scientist, faculty member, policy adviser, and board member in multi-cultural international institutions.