Postdoc/science programmer: modelling regional/global terrestrial ecosystem dynamics

Land-use change and climate change impact on ecosystems multiple ways. Yet our modelling skills in how the corresponding biotic, abiotic and social processes interact is still poor.

We seek a post-doctoral researcher to improve on some key issues, who will contribute to

• further develop model code, for instance related to crop-processes, seasonal vegetation dynamics (C allocation), and/or model coupling to a multi-trophic functional diversity model (Madingley);
• apply the model globally and regionally;
• assess model performance against suitable observations;
• perform uncertainty analyses;
• contribute some amount of time to broader duties, such as project reporting and teaching.

The work will be done in close collaboration with groups world-wide, especially in Sweden, UK, Kenya.  

Requirements

Model development and application will be done with the dynamic vegetation modelling framework LPJ-GUESS. The candidate must demonstrate advanced knowledge in programming such as in C++, and must have proven experience in simulations on Linux clusters. A degree in a quantitative environmental sciences discipline, for instance meteorology, environmental physics, or plant ecophysiology is required. Knowledge about soil and vegetation processes is a clear advantage. The candidate also needs to be familiar with processing large-scale model input and output. Excellent oral and written skills in English are prerequisite.

We offer

A vibrant and friendly, international research environment in the beautiful surroundings of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany (http://www.imk-ifu.kit.edu/institute.php). The salary will be equivalent to the public service TV-L EG13, depending on qualifications and experience. The appointment will be for 2 years, expected to start around summer 2018; extension beyond 2 years is possible, depending on the availability of funds.

For more information please contact Prof. Dr. Almut Arneth (Almut.arneth(at)kit.edu).

Applications

Applications should be sent by email to Prof. Almut Arneth (almut.arneth(at)kit.edu) by 30 March 2018, quoting the reference number TUT-01. Please send a copy of your CV including a publication list, a short (1-2 page) letter of motivation and contact details for 2 referees. The motivation letter should clearly provide evidence of your skills, and how you feel you can contribute to the main tasks.

Applications that are incomplete or do not meet the above requirements will not be considered.

KIT strives to achieve gender balance at all levels of employment. We therefore particularly encourage female candidates to apply for this position. With appropriate qualifications, applications from persons with handicaps will be treated with preference.