Project Assistant in analysis of forest dynamics

 Work duties

Demographic vegetation models are one of our most advanced and promising tools for understanding how the world’s forests are likely to change in the future. This position will contribute to making us of them in two projects  funded under the Horizon Europe programme.

• To have confidence in demographic vegetation model predictions, we need to extensively compare them to observations. In the AI4PEX project we have assembled a large set of data against which to test such models as well as a set of techniques for this testing. The staff member will carry out analyses benchmarking the simulation outputs from an ensemble of demographic vegetation models from around the world against this dataset.
• In the OBSGESSION project we are applying the LPJ-GUESS demographic vegetation model to explore impacts of disturbances, particularly spruce bark beetle, on European forests. The staff member will carry out LPJ-GUESS simulations and analyse the results.

Related to both projects, they will prepare reports, written documentation and code archiving associated with this work and contribute to the writing of a peer-reviewed paper on the topic. This will involve development of analysis code, interpretation of outputs and discussion with collaborators globally. Exact details of work plans will be agreed in discussion with the supervisors. Carrying out related administration and communication activities is also expected.

Qualifications

• Education: Masters degree in a quantitative natural science discipline.
• Very good oral and written proficiency in English.
• At least 3 months experience working with data analysis using code-based approaches, either from work or from working on a thesis (bachelor or master) from university studies.

Other merits

• Level of skill and experience in data analysis software such as Python, R or Matlab.
• Knowledge of forest ecology and dynamics
• Evidence of ability to work independently and act upon own initiative.
• Strong organisational skills, including ability and willingness to contribute to community activities.

We will place great emphasis on personal suitability. Consideration will also be given to 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 (SÄVA) at 100% of full time for a period of 12 months. Preferred starting date as soon as possible.

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 and suitability for this position (no more than one page),
• résumé/CV,
• contact information of at least two references,
• copy of certificates/grades that you wish to be considered.

Welcome to apply!