Researcher at the department for physical geography and ecosystem science - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

We seek a postdoctoral researcher to work on development, testing and application of a new coupled carbon allocation, phenology and carbohydrate-storage scheme in the biosphere model LPJ-GUESS, which has been developed at the Department of Physical Geography and Ecosystem Science (INES), Lund University. The appointee will be based at INES and a member of the LPJ-GUESS modelling group. The LPJ-GUESS model is widely used in a variety of projects in and outside Lund University (e.g. the Strategic Research Areas MERGE, http://www.merge.lu.se, and BECC, http://www.becc.lu.se). This offers to the appointee the possibility of collaborative work with a number of Swedish and international research institutions.

Tasks
The successful candidate will carry out development, testing and application of modelling code within the framework of the dynamic global vegetation model LPJ-GUESS. INES heads an international consortium engaged in the ongoing development of LPJ-GUESS and support to its worldwide community of research users. The model simulates vegetation dynamics and biogeochemical exchange between the terrestrial biosphere and the atmosphere from plot to global scale. It is used in a wide range of projects in which INES is involved. The research focuses on the carbon allocation scheme in LPJ-GUESS. Specific tasks include data compilation, literature review and model development focused on the core physiological mechanisms responsible for the allocation of biomass to plant tissues and compartments, and the resulting responses to environmental and climate variations, land use and nutrient cycles. The research will be carried out at INES, Lund University with the possibility of collaborative work with INES’ research partners. Participation in international meetings and workshops, and communication activities related to the research work is expected.

Qualifications
Applicants must have a doctoral degree in ecosystem ecology or another subject of relevance to the appointment. Prior experience working with ecosystem or climate models is expected. Advanced knowledge of quantitative or numerical methods in the context of environmental research is highly advantageous. Applicants must possess documented skills in computer programming, preferably in the C/C++ language family, or should be able to provide convincing evidence of aptitude enabling them to acquire such skills promptly upon appointment. Familiarity with command-language scripting in Unix or Linux environments is an advantage. An excellent command of written and spoken English is required. Prior experience of the application of terrestrial biosphere modelling to the study of terrestrial carbon cycling and biosphere-atmosphere carbon exchanges, is a strong advantage. Prior contributions to the development of process representations in terrestrial biosphere models, particularly LPJ-GUESS, would be especially relevant. Emphasis will be placed on the quality and quantity of scientific publications and other academic achievements indicative of high ability and potential to carry out independent research.

The successful candidate will be a service-minded, focused and well-organised expert with an equal ability to work independently or as part of a team.