Leianne Wijnhoud is a Senior Research Analyst at the WRI Polsky Center for the Global Energy Transition, working on the Energy Minerals and Circularity pillar. Her work supports meeting the demand for minerals for the energy transition while protecting both people and nature - by making mineral supply chains more responsible and by meeting demand through circularity.

Prior to joining WRI, Leianne worked at the intersection of international diplomacy and sustainable development, with roles at VNG International and the Dutch Embassy in Maputo and as Project Lead on youth participation in Dutch foreign policy with the Dutch National Youth Council and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In her research roles, she has examined the political-economic, social, and environmental dimensions of mineral extraction, with particular attention to governance of the extractive sector and stakeholder analysis. This work includes place-based research on artisanal and industrial mining in Mozambique, where she worked with local communities, governments, and mining companies and cooperatives.

Leianne holds a Research Master in International Development Studies from the University of Amsterdam and a BSc in Political Science with a specialization in International Relations from Leiden University.

Outside work, Leianne enjoys live music, cooking, crosswords, and staying active through running and swimming.