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Postdoctoral Researchers : Global sustainability modeling for the Iterative Eden Project

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Position description

We are seeking 2 post-docs as part of a new initiative at UC Santa Barbara called the Iterative Eden Project that aims to explore and produce global sustainability models across diverse and interacting sectors. The post-docs will work in close coordination and collaboration to evaluate different dimensions of global sustainability and build a first iteration ‘Eden’ model.

The Iterative Eden Project is being launched at UCSB with the audacious aim to develop the scientific foundation for a truly sustainable future with 10 billion people on the planet. Rather than start with models of where we are today and explore pathways that deviate from our current situation, IEP seeks to define the sustainable future (‘Eden’) – unconstrained by where we are today – and then discover pathways to that future. The Project will be highly interdisciplinary with the ultimate intent to engage and galvanize the global scientific community in a collaborative effort.

We anticipate the post-docs will have different but complementary background and expertise. One post-doc will focus on food, energy, water and climate and the other post-doc will focus on mathematical, quantitative modeling and algorithm development for global solutions modeling. A strong modeling and analytical background is essential for both positions. The post-doctoral researchers will be based at NCEAS in Santa Barbara, CA and will have the opportunity to work closely with faculty across other departments at UCSB.

Together, the post-docs will lead or be centrally involved in: 1) assessing and synthesizing global data and models for one or more sectors within food, energy, and water, ideally all of them, and their interaction with climate; 2) developing a first-iteration model of the intersection of existing global models for these sectors; 3) exploring archetypal regional case studies to explore implications of the models at the scale of decision making; and 4) work with an expanding team of researchers to develop further iterations of the model. These full time positions offer competitive salary and benefits commensurate with experience. The initial appointment is for 2 years. The successful candidates will be directly mentored by Ben Halpern (Director, NCEAS), Kelly Caylor (Director, Earth Research Institute) and at least one other UCSB faculty, to be selected together with the successful candidate, and integrated with the faculty research labs as well as the NCEAS and ERI communities.

RESIDENCY AT NCEAS: NCEAS is located in scenic downtown Santa Barbara, California. The Center is known for fostering interaction and collaboration, a characteristic that leads to the success of its visiting scientists. NCEAS has a growing and thriving community of post-docs, resident scientists, and analysts, and frequent influx of leading scientists and practitioners from around the world participating in working group projects across a diverse range of initiatives.  

QUALIFICATIONS:
Required
• Applicants must have completed all requirements for a PhD (or equivalent), except the dissertation, in ecology, math, physics, geography, natural resource economics, hydrology, environmental science, or related discipline by the time of application.
Additional
• PhD by time of appointment
Preferred
• Strong analytical and modeling skills
• Advanced mathematics and algorithm development
• Strong publication record
• Ability to review and synthesize large amounts of literature and complex information
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Outstanding organizational skills
• Ability to take initiative and work independently and as part of a team

SALARY RANGE: $60,000/year - $65,000/year, commensurate with qualifications and experience.

POSITION AVAILABLE: Start date October 1 or as soon as possible thereafter.

TO APPLY: https://recruit.ap.ucsb.edu/JPF01560
Applicants should submit 1) Curriculum Vitae, 2) a 2-3 page statement of research interests, and 3) contact information for three references

CLOSING DATE: Preference will be given to applications completed by September 11, 2019. Position is open until filled.

The University is especially interested in candidates who can contribute to the diversity and excellence of the academic community through research, teaching and service.

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Application Requirements

Document requirements
  • Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.

  • Statement of Research - 2-3 page statement of research interests

Reference requirements
  • 3 required (contact information only)