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- Tasks: Join a team developing innovative vegetation models for earth system research.
- Company: Leading university with a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Benefits: Fixed-term contract, potential for extension, and flexible working arrangements.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in environmental science while collaborating with top researchers.
- Qualifications: PhD in environmental science, strong programming skills, and experience in model evaluation.
- Other info: Dynamic research environment with opportunities for professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Full time, fixed term contract (12 months, with the potential for extension subject to funding).
Closing date: 23:59 on 8 March.
Interview date: to be confirmed.
The PDRA in EEO Vegetation Modelling will work on the LEMONTREE (Land Ecosystem Models based On New Theory, observations and Experiments) project and will be part of a team of scientists developing and testing a theoretical basis for modelling vegetation based on eco-evolutionary optimality (EEO) theory, suitable for implementation in the land-surface scheme of earth system models. The post-holder will be responsible for integrating existing EEO components into a coherent framework and advising on the implementation of this framework in the JULES and EC-LAND land-surface models. They will also be responsible for evaluating and optimising the performance of the modelling framework using field and laboratory experiments. The postholder will be based in Reading but will be expected to interact with other members of the LEMONTREE team at the Met Office in Exeter and Imperial.
The ideal candidate will have:
- A PhD in environmental science or closely related discipline by the start date of the appointment.
- An understanding of eco-evolutionary optimality theory and its application to modelling.
- Excellent programming skills (R, Python).
- Experience with high performance computing.
- Familiarity with relevant data sources for model evaluation.
- Knowledge of appropriate statistical techniques for model evaluation.
- The ability to use own initiative and plan, manage and prioritise workload effectively to meet varied and strict project delivery deadlines.
The University is committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce, supports the gender equality Athena SWAN Charter and the Race Equality Charter, and champions LGBT+ equality. We are a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2). Applications for job-share, part-time and flexible working arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with business needs.
Post-Doctoral Research Assistant employer: University of Reading
Contact Detail:
University of Reading Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Post-Doctoral Research Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the field of environmental science and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have a lead or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Brush up on your knowledge of eco-evolutionary optimality theory and be ready to discuss how your programming skills in R and Python can contribute to the LEMONTREE project. Practice common interview questions with a friend to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your projects! If you've worked on relevant modelling frameworks or high-performance computing tasks, make sure to highlight these experiences during interviews. Bring along examples or even a portfolio if possible to demonstrate your skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We encourage you to submit your application directly on our platform. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, and you’ll be one step closer to joining our diverse and inclusive team.
We think you need these skills to ace Post-Doctoral Research Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the specific requirements of the Post-Doctoral Research Assistant role. We want to see how you fit into our team and the LEMONTREE project!
Show Off Your Skills: Don’t hold back on showcasing your programming skills in R and Python! Include examples of your work or projects that demonstrate your expertise, especially those related to eco-evolutionary optimality theory and high-performance computing.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that make it easy for us to see your qualifications and enthusiasm for the role. Remember, first impressions count!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our team there!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Reading
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on eco-evolutionary optimality theory and its application to modelling. Be ready to discuss how your PhD work relates to the LEMONTREE project and demonstrate your understanding of the theoretical basis for vegetation modelling.
✨Show Off Your Skills
Prepare to showcase your programming skills in R and Python. You might be asked to solve a problem or explain your coding process, so have examples ready that highlight your experience with high-performance computing and relevant statistical techniques.
✨Be a Team Player
Since you'll be working with a team across different locations, emphasise your ability to collaborate effectively. Share examples of past teamwork experiences, especially those involving remote collaboration, to show you can integrate well with the LEMONTREE team.
✨Plan Ahead
Demonstrate your organisational skills by discussing how you manage your workload and meet deadlines. Prepare to talk about specific projects where you successfully prioritised tasks and delivered results under pressure, as this will show you can handle the demands of the role.
