Project Assistant for modelling global forest dynamics at INES - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Work duties

The staff member will be expected to lead/contribute to research on the topic of global forest dynamics, covering topics such as the response of forests to drought, the impact of forest disturbances and the role of forest management. Tasks will include the development of experimental protocols, carrying out the related simulations and analysis, and leading writing of peer-reviewed papers based on the results. They will contribute to on-going model development work related to the simulation of tree mortality and forest dynamics. This will involve programming of the LPJ-GUESS model, carrying out new model simulations, evaluating the results against observational data and developing improved simulation approaches. Exact topics and work plans will be agreed in discussion with their supervisor, but the staff member is expected to contribute substantially to the intellectual development of the work. The staff member will also be expected to contribute to or lead applications for external funding as necessary. Participation in national and international meetings and workshops related to the above is expected, as is carrying out related administration and communication activities.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor and Master's degrees in a natural or biological sciences subject.
• Very good oral and written proficiency in English.
• Substantial prior experience working with dynamic global vegetation models.
• Documented skills in computer programming, including lower-level languages such as Fortran or C++
• Documented success in leading and contributing to high-quality scientific publications.

Other merits

• Specialist knowledge in forest dynamics or tree ecophysiology, particularly relating to drought response.
• Experience with applying and developing dynamic global vegetation models.
• Evidence of ability to develop and execute own research ideas, and act upon own initiative.
• Strong organisational skills, including ability and willingness to contribute to and coordinate community activities, such as model intercomparisons.
• Emphasis will be placed on academic achievements as evidence of emerging independence as a researcher and the ability to communicate in scientific and outreach contexts.

We will place great emphasis on personal suitability. Consideration will also be given to the potential to develop an independent research career in the future, collaboration skills, how the applicant’s experience and skills complement and strengthen the administrative work within the unit/department, as well as contribute to its future development.

Terms of employment

Fixed-term employment at 100% of full time for a period of 1 year. Preferred starting date, 1st April 2021.

For further details contact thomas.pugh@nateko.lu.se

Instructions on how to apply

Applications shall be written in English and be compiled into a PDF-file containing:

• an application letter detailing your motivation for this position, a general description of past research work and future research interests (no more than two pages),
• résumé/CV, including a list of publications,
• contact information of at least two references,
• copy of certificates/grades that you wish to be considered.