Kim Portmess

Kim Portmess is the Program Lead for the Science, Technology and Policy (STeP) Fellowship Program at the Inter-American Institute for Global Change Research (IAI). Kim is responsible for the implementation, monitoring, and expansion of STeP, including the professional development and mentorship program in partnership with expert trainers and other IAI partners. 

As part of her work, Kim helped launch the STeP program from pilot stage with 17 fellows in 4 countries to its current level of 66 total fellows working in 14 countries. She has led the creation and implementation of virtual and in-person training in the pillars areas of science diplomacy, communication, and transdisciplinary leadership tailored for early career researchers and policymakers from across the Americas. 

Kim previously worked at the  Institute for Scientific Research and Advanced Technology Services (INDICASAT AIP)  in Panama.  She has a BSc. in Plant Science and Natural Resource Management from Cornell University in the United States and is currently pursuing a master’s degree Disaster Risk Management and Climate Governance.