At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a team to develop ecological models and analyse land-use change impacts on biodiversity.
- Company: Leading research institution focused on ecological modelling and global change.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, opportunities for publication, and collaboration with international experts.
- Other info: Engage in high-impact research with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in understanding biodiversity and climate change through innovative research.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant field and experience in ecological modelling or data analysis.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 € per year.
Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Ecological Modelling and Land-Use Change, with a particular emphasis on linking high-resolution land-use data with population and community ecological dynamics. The successful applicant will work on a project focused on developing high-resolution, policy-relevant projections of land-use change and their implications for biodiversity dynamics across spatial scales.
The research will build on recent advances in global land-use harmonisation and downscaling (e.g. HILDA+, One Earth products), with the aim of integrating these datasets into ecological forecasting frameworks that explicitly represent population, metapopulation, and community processes. A central aim of the project is to improve our ability to predict how species and ecological communities respond to interacting drivers of global change, including land-use change and climate change.
This will involve combining large-scale environmental datasets with process-based or hybrid ecological models, and exploring emerging approaches to scaling such models, including the use of emulation and AI-assisted workflows. The postholder will also contribute to international collaborative activities, including the Biodiversity Model Intercomparison Project (BMIP), supporting the implementation and execution of ecological models within intercomparison exercises and contributing to the synthesis of results across modelling approaches.
The postholder will work closely with Professor Justin Travis and collaborators to:
- Develop and apply methods for harmonising and downscaling land-use datasets.
- Integrate land-use projections with ecological models that capture population and spatial dynamics.
- Support model implementation and analysis within biodiversity intercomparison frameworks (e.g. BMIP).
- Contribute to the development of scalable ecological forecasting approaches.
- Contribute to high-impact publications and policy-relevant outputs.
The role provides an excellent opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research at the interface of ecological modelling, global change biology, and environmental data science, with strong links to international initiatives (e.g. GEO BON and biodiversity model intercomparison efforts).
PDRA in Ecological Modelling and Land-Use Change employer: Durham University
Join a leading research institution that prioritises innovation and collaboration in ecological modelling and land-use change. Our supportive work culture fosters professional growth through access to cutting-edge resources and international partnerships, allowing you to contribute to impactful research that shapes biodiversity policy. Located in a vibrant academic community, we offer unique opportunities for networking and interdisciplinary collaboration, making it an ideal environment for passionate researchers dedicated to addressing global environmental challenges.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land PDRA in Ecological Modelling and Land-Use Change
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in ecological modelling and land-use change on platforms like LinkedIn. Join relevant groups and engage in discussions to get your name out there and learn about potential job openings.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your work in ecological modelling, especially any projects related to land-use change. This can be a great conversation starter during interviews and helps us see your practical experience.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on the latest trends in biodiversity and ecological forecasting. We want to see that you’re not just knowledgeable but also passionate about the field and ready to tackle the challenges ahead.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at StudySmarter.
We think you need these skills to ace PDRA in Ecological Modelling and Land-Use Change
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in ecological modelling and land-use change. We want to see how your skills align with the specific requirements of the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant projects or research!
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for ecological research shine through! We love candidates who are genuinely excited about biodiversity and environmental data science. Share any personal projects or experiences that demonstrate your commitment to these fields.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon unless it's necessary. Make sure your key achievements and skills stand out, making it easy for us to see why you’re a great fit!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way for us to receive your materials and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about what we do at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Durham University
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in ecological modelling and land-use change. Brush up on recent advances like HILDA+ and One Earth products, as these will likely come up in conversation. Being able to discuss how these datasets integrate into ecological forecasting frameworks will show your depth of knowledge.
✨Show Your Collaborative Spirit
This role involves working closely with others, so be ready to talk about your experience in collaborative projects. Highlight any previous work with international teams or contributions to intercomparison exercises, like the Biodiversity Model Intercomparison Project (BMIP). It’s all about demonstrating that you can work well with others!
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions related to population dynamics, metapopulation processes, and hybrid ecological models. Brush up on your understanding of these concepts and think of examples from your past work where you applied them. This will help you feel more confident during the interview.
✨Think About Impact
The role focuses on high-impact publications and policy-relevant outputs, so be prepared to discuss how your research can influence biodiversity and land-use policies. Think about how your work aligns with global change biology and environmental data science, and be ready to share your vision for future contributions.
