research associate

The role

A postdoctoral position is available to explore the processes that shape the 3D structure of the world’s forests, under the guidance of Dr Tommaso Jucker in the School of Biological Sciences at the University of Bristol. This is a 3-year full time position with a proposed start date of 1st March 2021, or as soon as possible thereafter.

What will you be doing?

The PDRA will join an international team of forest ecologists and remote sensing specialist funded through a Leverhulme Grant awarded to Dr Tommaso Jucker. The overarching aim of the project is to leverage recent advances in theoretical ecology, remote sensing and computer modelling to shed new light on the processes that shape the 3D structure and function of the world’s forests. Using a newly compiled global database of airborne laser scanning (ALS, or LiDAR) surveys, the PDRA will explore how and why gap size frequency distributions (GSFD) vary across the world’s forests. By combining this unique dataset with individual-based forest simulators and field data from a global network of forest plots, the PDRA will then attempt to reconcile and integrate GSFD into existing theories of forest structure and dynamics. The PDRA will work closely with collaborators and data contributors from all over the world. In particular, the project will involve close collaboration with Prof David Coomes at the University of Cambridge and Prof Laura Duncanson at the University of Maryland.

You should apply if

The successful candidate will have a PhD in forest ecology, remote sensing or other relevant subject, with a strong computational background and previous experience working with LiDAR data. They will be highly motivated, collaborative and an excellent communicator, as well as having a demonstrable desire to learn new skills. Training and guidance will be provided in database management, LiDAR data processing and analysis, as well as statistical and process-based modelling. Additionally, there is scope for the successful candidate to help shape the focus and direction of the research based on their expertise and interests.
 
For informal enquiries please contact Dr Tommaso Jucker via email: t.jucker@bristol.ac.uk.

Additional information

Contract type: Open-ended
Work pattern: Full-time
Grade: I
Salary: £33,797 - £38,017 per annum
School/Unit: School of Biological Sciences
This advert will close at 23:59 GMT on Thursday 4th February 2021.



We welcome applications from all members of our community and are particularly encouraging those from diverse groups, such as members of the LGBT+ and BAME communities, to join us.  « Return to the search results