Macroecological modeller

Functieomschrijving

Biodiversity loss and nature degradation are among the main environmental challenges of our time. At PBL, we support (inter)national biodiversity-relevant policy, for which models and model-based analyses and outlooks are essential. We are currently looking for an ecological modeller with a strong technical background and interest in model applications for policy support to strengthen the GLOBIO team. GLOBIO is a global model to assess impacts of human changes in the environment (e.g. climate change, land use, pollution) on terrestrial and freshwater biodiversity and ecosystem services. GLOBIO is also part of PBL's IMAGE framework: a comprehensive integrated modelling framework of interacting human and natural systems.

In this position you will contribute to the further development and application of GLOBIO in a multi-disciplinary team of colleagues. This includes the following tasks:

• Apply GLOBIO in scenario simulations to inform nature-relevant policy processes (e.g. via CBD, IPBES, OECD, UNEP).
• Translate applied questions to needs and actions for further model development (e.g. representation of pressures, feedbacks from nature to society).
• Contribute to the technical implementation of novel model components.
• Ensure the model and its applications are properly documented.
• Analyze model results and contribute writing of policy reports and scientific papers.

Functie-eisen

• You have a M.Sc. or a Ph.D. degree in a relevant field (e.g. ecology, environmental sciences, earth sciences, engineering). For candidates with an M.Sc. degree, several years of work experience in a similar position are required.
• You have extensive demonstrable experience in developing and applying quantitative ecological models.
• You have extensive demonstrable experience with high-level programming languages (e.g. Python, R) and GIS software.
• You have experience with version control systems (e.g. Git) in collaborative settings.
• You are familiar with managing, handling and editing large datasets, including geospatial datasets.
• You have excellent communication skills.
• You are fluent in English (written and spoken) and you master at least a basic level of Dutch (mainly spoken) or you are willing to learn.

Are you missing some of the job requirements, but would you like to work at PBL? Motivate why you think you are a good fit in our organisation, and who knows, you might become our new colleague!

Overige arbeidsvoorwaarden

In addition to your salary, you will receive an Individual Budget (IKB). The IKB consists of funds (16.50% of your gross annual salary) and time. With the IKB, you make choices that are right for you, and you can decide on some of your employment conditions yourself. For example, you could opt to receive part of your monthly salary at a date of your choosing. You could also use the budget to purchase additional leave, or vice versa, or spend it on tax-efficient purchases. The Government of the Netherlands strongly values personal growth and career development and offers a wide range of options to achieve that. The fringe benefits include various study facilities, company fitness, a full compensation of your public transport expenses for your commute and partially paid parental leave.

Bijzonderheden

Specifics
Pay attention: you need to apply before the closing date (not up until and including).

• From the closing date onwards, the vacancy will no longer be visible online. We therefore recommend downloading and saving the vacancy text.
• References checking or online screening (e.g. academic publications or LinkedIn profile) can be part of the selection process.
• You will be given a one-year contract. If you perform well, you will be offered a permanent contract after the year.
• The salary level within the offered scales is determined on the basis of knowledge and experience.
• If it fits with your work activities, you can partially work from home. You do, however, live and work in the Netherlands and are at least half of your worktime at the office.

Onboarding
We consider a good landing in the organisation to be very important. In your onboarding period, you will be guided by a direct colleague. This colleague is your first point of contact in the period in which you are still getting acquainted with the organisation. Furthermore, PBL has an introduction programme for new employees concerning the role and position of PBL, our ways of working, and the working culture.

Meer over jouw toekomstige afdeling

At PBL, you will be part of the department of Global Sustainability (MD). Looking at a global scale, this department carries out assessments of policies, both proposed and adopted, on how to realise internationally-agreed goals and targets for climate and biodiversity, as well as the broader SDG-agenda. The department supports the international sustainability policies of various Dutch ministries. It also studies scientific, economic, and governance aspects of societal developments, applying mixed methods. MD contributes to international assessments such as those of the IPCC, IPBES, and UNEP GEO.

Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency, Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management

PBL Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency is the national institute for strategic policy analysis in the fields of environment, nature and spatial planning. We contribute to improving the quality of political and administrative decision-making by conducting outlook studies, analyses and evaluations in which an integrated approach is considered paramount. Policy relevance is the prime concern in all our studies. We conduct solicited and unsolicited research that is always independent and scientifically sound. PBL Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency believes that employees perform best in an inclusive working environment. Working in diverse teams makes our work more innovative and enjoyable.

PBL The Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency is administratively part of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management.

The Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management is committed to improving quality of life, access and mobility in a clean, safe and sustainable environment. The Ministry strives to create an efficient network of roads, railways, waterways and airways, effective water management to protect against flooding, and improved air and water quality.