Open Positions: 2 Postdocs researchers for 1 year- Wageningen University, the Netherlands
The project: Spatially explicit, multiple goal optimization is a cutting edge topic in bio-economic models, especially with regard to the sustainable utilization of natural resources, where conservation and other societal needs have to be simultaneously addressed. Spatial issues and non-linear scale-transitions are not sufficiently dealt with in current bio-economic models, where data about resources are generally aggregated over space and time. The Postdoc researchers should study the effect of different scales of measurements on the output of a bio-economic model, by investigating the impact of the extent of the resource distribution (i.e., the set spatial limits of the resource) as well as the grain size (i.e., spatial resolution) that is chosen for the analysis. The Postdocs will deepen the knowledge on spatially explicit bio-economic modelling, using data from the Tembo integrated programme focussing on a vegetation-elephant-humans system (www.reg.wur.nl/UK/Research/Temboproject/), and from projects with similar questions on marine resources, carried out by Imares, such as the North Sea benthic fisheries. Benefit sharing, co-management, and the incorporation of externalities have to be addressed in both study systems. One of the Postdoc researchers will concentrate on profit maximization, while the other focuses on the sustainability of the exploitation. Candidate profile: * the position is available for non EU applicants only * period: 1 September 2009- 31 August 2010 * a PhD degree in Ecology or Economics * experience with spatial modeling with remotely sensed data and GIS * a good publication record * excellent written and oral communication skills in English * advanced knowledge on novel modeling approaches (e.g., multi-species, spatially-explicit bio-economic models under conflicting interests) * scientific curiosity and new bright ideas Our offer: * The stipend (1400 Euro/months) is for 1 year for both positions * The vacancy is located at the Resource Ecology Group, Wageningen University, Wageningen, the Netherlands Interested? Applicants should submit a Curriculum Vitae, a copy of their academic records, and a covering letter stating their motivation to [email protected] before 1 May 2009. More information can be obtained through Fred de Boer ([email protected]). Resource Ecology Group Centre for Ecosystem Studies Wageningen University P.O. Box 47 6700 AA Wageningen The Netherlands Phone +31 317 484750 Fax +31 317 484845 http://www.reg.wur.nl/UK/
