Colin Quinn

Colin Quinn, Winrock’s director for climate & environment, has nearly two decades of experience working in the U.S. and internationally in ecological research and climate change. Quinn values working with, building, and collaborating with diverse teams to identify creative solutions to challenging problems, linking science to action, and learning from others. Prior to joining Winrock, he led initiatives across sub-Saharan Africa focused on improving climate resilience and reducing climate risks in the agriculture, conservation, health and water resource management sectors. For example, in Mozambique, he started and managed a $20 million coastal city adaptation program and designed a project to reduce climate-related public health risks through the use of climate data, information, and technology. His experience also includes supporting United Nations climate initiatives, such as developing National Adaptation Plans; leading climate projects for the Cadmus Group; and improving climate resilience and related policies in the western U.S. Quinn also has a background in plant ecology, working with the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute in Panama. He has a doctorate from Colorado State University in plant ecology and a biology degree from the University of Canterbury in New Zealand.