CEH is a world-class scientific research organisation focusing on a wide range of topics related to the environment, biodiversity, freshwater and terrestrial ecosystems. Our independent, impartial science underpins UK and international environmental policies and innovation for sustainable economic growth.
The post will be a Research Associate in biogeochemical modelling based at CEH Bangor, working within the Wetlands, Grasslands and Croplands Group. We are seeking a suitable applicant to undergo training in and work on the development of models that simulate ecosystem responses to environmental change. You will benefit from an extensive training programme and undertake project work to develop models and apply these to improve scientific understanding and deliver policy-relevant summary outputs. The initial focus will be on developing and expanding skills with manipulating spatial datasets, working with the UK National Focal Centre datasets of air pollution impacts modelling results and using scripts and queries to provide data in response to requests.
The NERC Research Associates' Programme is an initiative which is intended to offer individuals the opportunity to gain practical experience of working within a Research Institute, whilst acquiring specialist and wider skills that will be valuable in a range of careers.
The programme is aimed particularly at those who have recently completed postgraduate studies, but is open to individuals from other backgrounds and of all ages. Individuals will work on highly topical research projects, both important for future research within the environmental research community and appropriate to their backgrounds. At the end of the 3-year training programme, you will have had in-depth training in developing ecosystem models and in using GIS and database management skills to apply these at large spatial scales. You will have improved their programming skills using a range of languages and platforms and developed new skills in model design and in modern approaches to collaborative software development.
It is essential that you are are PhD-qualified with a 2:1 first degree and/or an MSc, ideally in an aspect of soil/vegetation science.
You must have proven programming abilities (e.g. R, Python, FORTRAN or Matlab) and proven ability to manipulate spatial data (e.g. using ArcGIS, QGIS or R).
Good communication, presentation and teamwork skills are also essential for this role.
What we offer
NERC offer a public sector pension scheme, 30 days’ annual leave and 10½ days’ public and privilege holidays per annum. NERC has an equal opportunities policy and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. People with disabilities and those from ethnic minorities are currently under represented and their applications are particularly welcomed. Guaranteed interview scheme for applicants with disabilities.
Eligibility
To work for CEH, you must be eligible to live and work in the UK without the requirement for a work permit.
How to apply:
Applications are handled by UK Shared Business Services; to apply please visit our job board at http://topcareer.jobs/Vacancy/irc243632_7789.aspx. Please ensure that you complete an application form as CVs will not be accepted as a standalone. The form should be uploaded via the "My Account" menu option on the "Jobs Home" page. Applicants who are unable to apply online should contact us by telephone on 01793 867000, please quote reference number IRC243632.
Closing Date: 11th January 2018
Interview Date: 30th January 2018
