Researcher in forest disturbance modeling
Agriculture, Forestry, and Ecosystem Services (AFE) Research group
The AFE Research Group, part of the IIASA Biodiversity and Natural Resources (BNR) Program, is looking for an early-stage researcher with expertise and familiarity in the areas of natural hazards and forest disturbances, and their impacts on the ecosystem and society.
BACKGROUND
The focus of the AFE Research Group is to generate knowledge and develop state-of-the-art modeling tools to advance the scientific community and support policies that enable better understanding and management of global and regional agriculture, forestry, and natural land ecosystems.
We are an emerging group of researchers focused on modeling forest disturbances with particular emphasis on forest and wildland fires. The basis for this modeling is the wildfire climate impacts and adaptation model (FLAM) being developed at AFE and applied at various scales and resolutions.
the role
The successful candidate will contribute to the group working on forest disturbances and development of the FLAM model. This role will be responsible for the ongoing development and application of FLAM in various contexts. There will be opportunities to contribute to various models, projects, and reports, within the context of FLAM, AFE, and IIASA. The group would support use of work projects for a PhD thesis.
MAIN Tasks AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Advance FLAM methodology. Integrate FLAM with other IIASA and external models. Develop FLAM algorithms and data infrastructure. Contribute to FLAM development in collaboration with the current team. Implement FLAM or related models in various projects, including calibration and optimization. Support the team in translating FLAM and related models to different programming languages. Participate in and contribute to project meetings and deliverables. (Co)-author peer-reviewed publications and deliverables. Support senior researchers with research activities. 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.requirements
Essential:
Master's degree (or equivalent) in mathematics, environmental science or policy, or other relevant discipline. Experience in risk modeling, systems modeling, forest management. Knowledge of at least one programming language (Python, R, C++) combined with programming experience (in the cloud or with virtual machines). Experience with spatial software (ArcGIS, QGIS). Knowledge of matrix manipulation; basics of probability theory and optimization. Experience in systems analysis or modeling. Excellent command of written and spoken English. Ability to work independently and as part of team. Self-motivation and a growth mindset.Desirable:
Working knowledge of additional language(s), both human and programming. Knowledge and interest in fire, ecology, and ecosystem science. Background in forestry or environmental policy. Project management experience. Experience in statistical analysis. Experience in an international environment will be considered a plus 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 in 2023. We will offer an initial full-time (40 hours per week), fixed term 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.
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. A gross annual, full-time salary of minimum:EUR 36,875.00 (for R1 researchers).
The salary is exempt from income tax in Austria and negotiable, based on the qualifications, skills and experience of the selected individual.
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
Enrico Confienza, Program and Project Officer, AFE
For general information about working at IIASA, contact: recruitment@iiasa.ac.at
Applications
In order to apply for this opportunity, you will need to provide the following documents:
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