Postdoc Position: Modelling Lake Ecosystems

1. Introduction

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!

2. Job description

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. 

3. 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.

4. 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).

5. 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. 

6. Practical information and applying

You can apply only via the button below. Address your letter of application to Dr Aafke Schipper.  In the application form, you will find which documents you need to include with your application.

The first interviews will take place on Thursday 23 January. You will preferably start your employment on 1 March 2025. 

We can imagine you're curious about our application procedure. It describes what you can expect during the application procedure and how we handle your personal data and internal and external candidates. If you wish to apply for a non-scientific position with a non-EU nationality, please take notice of the following information.