Postdoc Position: Modelling Lake Ecosystems

Are you interested in lake ecosystems and their functioning? Do you enjoy developing and applying simulation models to better understand these ecosystems? And would you like to work towards solutions for a better management of lakes? Then this postdoctoral position might be the perfect fit for you!

Freshwater lakes are crucial for both biodiversity and human well-being. They host a variety of unique species and provide multiple ecosystem services, including water purification, food provision and recreational opportunities. At the same time, lakes are among the most threatened ecosystems worldwide. For instance, only 10% of Dutch lakes have good ecological status, partly due to their nutrient status leading to excessive algal growth that affects recreation, drinking water supply and biodiversity.

In the international PLURALAKES project we aim to improve the outcomes of lake management by developing innovative lake management solutions in close collaboration with stakeholders in three case study areas in Northern Europe (United Kingdom, Finland and the Netherlands). First, we assess current lake dynamics, drivers, ecosystem services and the efficacy of available management measures based on data synthesis and process-based modelling. In addition, we will work with stakeholders to understand their vision on desired lake futures and possible management interventions for getting there. Based on this, we will develop pathways towards desirable lake futures to inform local policy processes.

As a postdoctoral researcher within the PLURALAKES project you will focus on the further development and application of a process-explicit lake ecosystem model (PCLake+). You will use the model to understand current lake dynamics in the case study regions as well as the responses of the lakes to possible combinations of management measures. You will also use the model in a target-seeking optimisation approach in order to identify novel combinations of interventions leading to desired future states. You will participate in regular exchanges with stakeholders to ensure that the modelling work remains useful for informing local and regional policy.

Profile

• You hold a PhD degree in freshwater ecology.
• You have proven experience with process-explicit ecological modelling.
• You have a solid basis in at least one common high-level programming language (e.g., R, Python, Matlab).
• You enjoy collaborative research in international, transdisciplinary teams.
• You have an excellent command of written and spoken English.

We are

You will be based at the Department of Environmental Science of the Radboud Institute for Biological and Environmental Sciences (RIBES). The mission of our department is to provide high-quality scientific knowledge that can help the world move towards greater sustainability. To achieve this, we aim to understand, project and address the impact of anthropogenic pressures on ecosystems and humans from the landscape to the global scale. This enables us to explore and develop wide-ranging sustainable solutions for the environmental challenges the world faces today. We are a diverse group that fosters a pleasant, collaborative and lively atmosphere.

You will closely collaborate with researchers from other institutes involved in the PLURALAKES project, notably the Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW). Other partners are the Stockholm Resilience Centre (SRC), the Finnish Environment Institute (SYKE) and the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology (CEH).

Radboud University

At Radboud University, we aim to make an impact through our work. We achieve this by conducting groundbreaking research, providing high-quality education, offering excellent support, and fostering collaborations within and outside the university. In doing so, we contribute indispensably to a healthy, free world with equal opportunities for all. To accomplish this, we need even more colleagues who, based on their expertise, are willing to search for answers. We advocate for an inclusive community and welcome employees with diverse backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives. Will you also contribute to making the world a little better? You have a part to play.

Faculty of Science

The Faculty of Science (FNWI), part of Radboud University, engages in groundbreaking research and excellent education. In doing so, we push the boundaries of scientific knowledge and pass that knowledge on to the next generation.

We seek solutions to major societal challenges, such as cybercrime and climate change and work on major scientific challenges, such as those in the quantum world. At the same time, we prepare our students for careers both within and outside the scientific field.

Currently, more than 1,300 colleagues contribute to research and education, some as researchers and lecturers, others as technical and administrative support officers. The faculty has a strong international character with staff from more than 70 countries. Together, we work in an informal, accessible and welcoming environment, with attention and space for personal and professional development for all.

We offer

• We will give you a temporary employment contract of 1 year, with the option of extending it for 2 years.
• Your salary within salary scale 10 depends on your previous education and number of years of (relevant) work experience. The amounts in the scale are based on a 38-hour working week.
• You will receive an 8% holiday allowance and an 8,3% end-of-year bonus.
• You will be able to use our Dual Career and Family Support Service. The Dual Career Programme assists your partner via support, tools, and resources to improve their chances of independently finding employment in the Netherlands. Our Family Support Service helps you and your partner feel welcome and at home by providing customised assistance in navigating local facilities, schools, and amenities. Also take a look at our support for international staff page to discover all our services for international employees.
• You will receive extra days off. With full-time employment, you can choose between 30 or 41 days of annual leave instead of the statutory 20.

Additional employment conditions

Work and science require good employment practices. Radboud University's primary and secondary employment conditions reflect this. You can make arrangements for the best possible work-life balance with flexible working hours, various leave arrangements and working from home. You are also able to compose part of your employment conditions yourself. For example, exchange income for extra leave days and receive a reimbursement for your sports membership. In addition, you receive a 34% discount on the sports and cultural activities at Radboud University as an employee. And, of course, we offer a good pension plan. We also give you plenty of room and responsibility to develop your talents and realise your ambitions. Therefore, we provide various training and development schemes.