Researcher in ecological modeling
IIASA BIODIVERSITY AND NATURAL RESOURCES (BNR) PROGRAM
The Biodiversity, Ecology, and Conservation (BEC) Research Group, within the BNR Program is offering an opportunity for a researcher in environmental science and ecological modeling.
background
The BEC Group at IIASA develops and applies state-of-the art ecological knowledge, methods, and tools to understand ecosystem functioning, ecological responses, and feedbacks in coupled social-economic-ecological systems. The group aims to apply this knowledge and tools to investigate appropriate management options to achieve sustainability goals that have ecological implications.
In the Biodiversa+ funded INSPIRE project (โINtegrated Spatial PlannIng across REalms for biodiversity conservation and human development in a context of changeโ) we aim to develop a conservation planning framework to evaluate opportunities for area-based zoning and improved management actions for the broader Neusiedl lake and Seewinkel catchment. Together with stakeholders from the region we aim to design a set of possible management scenarios for the region up to 2050 that aligns with the European Biodiversity Strategy and maximizes conservation and other sectoral benefits in the light of climate change. The INSPIRE project is a multi-national project with three case studies across Europe, each of which covers different realms and trans-national borders, and which are also facing future challenges in terms of resource demand and climate change.
The role:
The incumbent will work within the BNR Program and the BEC group, and work in close collaboration with Dr. Martin Jung and other project partners of the INSPIRE project. Depending on the profile of the selected candidate, they will work on developing new spatial data through either remote sensing or ecological modeling approaches. The data will be used to identify priorities for conservation, restoration, and improved management through a systematic planning approach. The ideal candidate will be knowledgeable about typical species and ecosystems in Austria, and ongoing conservation issues and debates involving them. Furthermore, they will be interested in building a career in conservation science through the use of data science and ecological modeling.
TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Develop new and integrate existing data on status, trends and condition of species populations and ecosystems for the Neusiedl and Lake region. Prepare large geo-spatial data for spatial planning and assessment of protected area effectiveness. Liaise between Austrian stakeholders and scientific staff working in the project, keep up to date with conservation policy developments. Contribute to or lead on the dissemination of project results via high-quality journal publications and conference presentations. Support all project partners in the drafting of reports, proposals and other scientific outputs as need arises. In line with the team spirit that prevails at IIASA, the incumbent may occasionally work on other tasks assigned by their supervisors, 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 EXPERIENCE
Advanced degree (master's or equivalent) in environmental science, ecology, or conservation with a specific focus on or experience with quantitative data analyses. Knowledge of Austrian ecosystems and species, and general conservation and policy issues particularly in Burgenland and the Lake Neusiedl region. Experience using quantitative analyses, particularly in the context of ecological modeling or remote sensing analyses. Familiarity with scientific programming (for example R). Knowledge of the Google Earth engine or machine learning, or willingness to learn such methods would be advantageous. Excellent organizational skills, pro-active and results-oriented, and the capacity to deliver on allocated tasks and respond in a timely manner to deadlines. Ability to work independently. Excellent communication skills (both written and oral) in English. Furthermore, the capacity to understand German, at least on a basic level, and ability to interpret Austrian documents and datasets. 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 selected candidate should be available to take up the position as soon as possible. We offer a full-time (40 hours per week) employment contract for one year initially, with the possibility to extend thereafter (by mutual agreement). 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.
The successful candidate will be appointed in accordance with the IIASA profiles for research careers.
WE OFFER
An international atmosphere and pleasant working environment in a historic market town surrounded by green areas. 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 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 least:EUR 36,875.00 (full-time equivalent) for R1 Researchers.
In addition, IIASA salaries are:
Subject to deductions for health insurance and/or social security. 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. Moving and settlement 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:
Martin Jung, Research Scholar, BEC Research Group
For general questions about working at IIASA, please 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.Deadline for receipt of applications: 31 July 2023