Post-Doctoral Systems Modeller

Post-Doctoral Systems Modeller - (REF: 1199)
A Post-Doctoral Systems Modeller is required to work on a recently awarded consortium NERC macronutrient project in the Sustainable Soils and Grasslands Systems Department at Rothamsted Research.

Based in Harpenden, the successful candidate will be expected to model plant-soil processes in agricultural systems. He/she will use both existing computer simulation models and develop models him./herself within project in order to investigate the interactions between carbon nitrogen and phosphorus at different spatial interactions between carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus at different spatial scales in terrestrial ecosystems in the UK. In addition, funding is expected for a piece of work to study with-in field variability of the nutrient supply and crop yield. In this project, the successful candidate will develop means to delineate areas in agricultural fields that are suitable for spatially-variable management of the application of fertiliser.

In the first instance the employment offered is for two years either full time or part time over three years. However, if the additional funding for the second project is confirmed, this would allow the postholder to be employed for up to 42 months at 100%. This will be apparent by the time of the interview.

To fill this role we are seeking a highly motivated researcher with mathematical and programming skills. The candidate will be expected to turn his or her hand to different challenges and so a versatile individual is sought. Interaction with a small company will be a part of the second project as will some knowledge exchange with the wider agricultural industry and so good interpersonal skills will be important. Experience of working in any or all of visual C++, Fortran or MATLAB would be a distinct advantage. Knowledge in the areas of agronomy and ecology is also desirable. Since some UK travel to farms and other research institutions is required a UK driving licence is desirable.

Further particulars will be provided based on the project proposals. The post is at Band D with a starting salary normally in the range of £28,110 to £31,677 per annum.

Apply by application form only, available with further particulars by clicking on the 'Apply Now' button to submit an email to our HR department. Please quote reference number 1199.
Closing date: 17 August

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