Agricultural Modeler
Exploratory Modeling of human-natural systems research group
We are looking for an agricultural modeling expert to join our team to help us develop, test, and apply models that simulate various aspects of agricultural systems.
background
The Exploratory Modeling of Human-natural Systems (EM) Research Group is one of four research groups in the IIASA Advancing Systems Analysis (ASA) Program. EM's mission is to produce methodological advances that will underpin IIASA research on transformations toward sustainable social-economic-environmental systems with a focus on socioeconomic complexity, integrative Earth systems models, and macro-level systems models.
About FABLE
The Food, Agriculture, Biodiversity, Land-Use, and Energy (FABLE) Consortium is a collaborative initiative created in 2017. FABLE is a global network of researchers who develop national pathways that are consistent with global sustainability objectives, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Climate Agreement targets.
our vision
Our vision is collective science-based political action that responds to the pressing global challenges our countries are faced with. We believe that global collaboration between nations can be used to address global goals by recognizing each countryโs autonomy, capacity, responsibility, and contribution. We create a collaborative space to support and challenge each other in support of evidence-based decision-making.
COUNTRY TEAMS
FABLE country teams are at the heart of FABLE's mission. Country teams develop national bottom-up pathways for sustainable food and land-use systems that describe the changes needed to achieve mid-century sustainability objectives. They also engage with national governments to promote ambitious sustainable policies.
main tasks and responsibilities
Support Country teams on the development of integrated pathways using the FABLE calculator. (FABLE pathways) Conduct literature reviews and data analysis to identify parameters for different crops, regions, and scenarios. Communicate model results and implications to stakeholders, policymakers, and researchers through reports, presentations, and publications. Conduct trainings on the FABLE calculator - online or in person. In line with the team spirit that prevails at IIASA, the incumbent may occasionally work on other tasks assigned by their superiors, that might not be directly related to this appointment but where the post holder has relevant experience and skills, and/or a shortage of immediate personnel capabilities requires such.Qualifications and skills
A master's or PhD degree (or equivalent) in agronomy, agricultural engineering, environmental science, or a related field. Experience using and developing modules for the FABLE calculator. Experience using and developing agricultural models, preferably at different scales and for different purposes. Ability to perform complex spatial analysis and problem-solving using GIS tools and techniques. Knowledge of spatial data formats, standards, and quality control. Knowledge of the current challenges and opportunities in agricultural systems, such as climate change, water scarcity, food security, and sustainability. Excellent written and oral communication skills in English, Spanish is an asset. The ability to work independently and collaboratively. IIASA offers an interdisciplinary and international workplace, and the possibility to interact with researchers of different nationalities, with strong ties to a world-wide network of research institutions engaged in environmental systems research. The successful candidate must be able to work in, and have respect for, an intercultural environment, and IIASA core values.appointment terms
The successful candidate should be available to take up the position as soon as possible in 2024. We offer an initial fixed-term, full-time employment contract for one year, with the possibility for extension thereafter.
Eligible applicants wishing to work part-time hours may be considered.
Duties will be carried out at the IIASA premises in Laxenburg, near Vienna in Austria (up to 100 days per year home office working within Austria possible).
The successful candidate will be appointed in accordance with the IIASA profiles for research careers.
WE OFFER
The possibility to contribute to environmental sciences for sustainability and global wellbeing. The opportunity to deepen and improve knowledge and scientific profile. Career development perspectives. An international atmosphere and pleasant working environment in a historic market town surrounded by green areas. An attractive salary which is exempt from income tax in Austria and negotiable, based on the qualifications, skills and experience of the selected individual and at leastEUR 39,825.00 for R1 researchers
EUR 51,894.00 for R2 research scholars (gross per annum subject to deductions for health insurance and/or social security).
IIASA salaries are:
Not directly comparable with other employers in Austria, due to the unique legal status and privileges granted to IIASA. Subject to the principle of income aggregation (Progressionsvorbehalt in German).OTHER BENEFITS
Educational subsidies for children of school age enrolled in private schools in Austria. A generous annual leave entitlement. Relocation allowances and paid home leave for employees in scientific and professional categories hired from international locations. The possibility to work up to 100 days per year in home office (within Austria). Assistance for newcomers to Austria with visa, work and residency permit applications. Support finding accommodation in Austria.Further details here.
About IIASA
IIASA is committed to a working environment that promotes equality, diversity, tolerance and inclusion within its workforce. This is reflected in our IIASA core values. We encourage qualified candidates from all religious, ethnic, and social backgrounds to apply. In the case that candidates are equally qualified, preference will be given to applicants from countries where IIASA has a Member Organization.
Further Information
For further information about this opportunity please contact:
Valeria JAVALERA RINCรN, Research Scholar, EM Research Group
For general information about working at IIASA, contact recruitment@iiasa.ac.at
Applications
To apply for this opportunity, you will need to provide the following documents in English:
A cover letter outlining your motivation for and fit to the position A detailed Curriculum Vitae The names, addresses (including e-mail), and telephone numbers of two work-related reference givers. Deadline for receipt of applications: until filled