Research position within the Marie Curie Network GREENCYCLESII, The University of Cambridge, UK, Department of Geography

T5.4 Modelling Vegetation-Atmosphere Feedbacks in the Amazon Region

The Early-Stage Researcher will investigate the coupled dynamics of the land surface and atmosphere in the Amazon region within the context of land cover change. The aim of the project is to improve understanding of the consequences of land use change for atmospheric processes and carbon storage. Sophisticated models of land surface and atmospheric processes will be coupled and tested against field data. Model experiments will aim to characterise the potential impacts of land cover change such as deforestation for vegetation and soil carbon storage, atmospheric humidity, stability, clouds, and precipitation, as well as connections to the wider atmospheric system. Ecological processes such as photosynthesis, growth, competition, and soil decomposition will also be considered.

The successful candidate will actively participate in network-wide workshops and training events, and will work on secondment with colleagues in Amsterdam.

It may be possible for the applicant to register for a PhD degree, depending on the outcome of future funding decisions. This possibility will be negotiated with the successful candidate upon acceptance of the post.

The position will start as soon as possible and run until 31 December 2013. Applications must arrive before 9 March, 2011.

Interested candidates should send a CV, a half-page statement of interest, copies of your high-school and academic certificates, the names and contact details of two referees, a completed Eligibility Form (http://www.greencycles.org/vacancies/), and a completed CHRIS6 Form (http://www.admin.cam.ac.uk/offices/hr/forms/chris6/) to Dr Andrew D. Friend, preferably by e-mail (adf10@cam.ac.uk) or by post (Department of Geography, University of Cambridge, Downing Place, Cambridge CB2 3EN, UK).

Payment will be according to Marie Curie rules (http://ec.europa.eu/research/mariecurieactions/), including an allowance for transnational travel and mobility.

At the start of their fellowship, researchers may not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc) in the UK for more than 12 months in the preceding 3 years. UK nationals are eligible only if they have legally resided in a Third Country for at least three out of the last four years.

Early-stage researchers (ESRs) must be in the first 4 years (full-time equivalent) of their research careers, including the period of research training, starting at the qualification date for undertaking a PhD Degree, which they must not have already obtained.

Female applicants are particularly encouraged to apply. 

Andrew D. Friend

Coordinator, GREENCYCLESII

www.greencycles.org