Postdoctoral Fellow - Modelling Land Use Change
Competition 2097
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Description
This position is part of the Post Doctoral Fellows Association and has an initial appointment of 12 months from the date of hire.
This position has a comprehensive benefits package.
Location - Work primarily takes place at North Campus, Edmonton.
Working at the University of Alberta
The University of Alberta acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages and cultures of First Nations, Métis, Inuit and all FirstPeoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community.
The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to over 14,000 faculty and staff, more than 40,000 students and a growing community of 300,000 alumni worldwide.
Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people — from our students and community members, to our renowned researchers and innovators, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger and more just. Learn more.
Working for the Faculty of Agricultural, Life, and Environmental Sciences (ALES)- Department of Resource Economics and Environmental Sociology (REES)
This position is within the Department of Resource Economics and Environmental Sociology (REES), part of the Faculty of Agricultural, Life, and Environmental Sciences (ALES) at the University of Alberta. This position will be co-supervised by Drs. Feng Qiu and Vic Adamowicz.
Position Summary
The successful candidate will work closely with Drs. Feng Qiu and Vic Adamowicz as well as an interdisciplinary team of experts on a land use project. The primary focus is on land use change modeling, emphasizing peatland dynamics in Canada, using geospatial data analysis and machine learning techniques.
The role is crucial to the “Modelling Peatland Disturbance/Conversion in Alberta” project funded by Environment and Climate Change Canada. This project examines baseline trajectories for peatlands under alternative possible policy and economic futures with the intent of using this baseline as the benchmark for the evaluation of climate change policy measures.
Duties
- Collecting and analyzing peatland land cover, disturbance, and other relevant data.
- Constructing land use change models that identify driving factors and project future peatland disturbances.
- Preparing presentations, drafting reports, and composing academic publications.
Minimum Qualifications
- Educational background: PhD in economics, renewable resources, environmental management, computer science, statistics, or a related discipline.
- Econometrics/statistics: demonstrated advanced skills in statistical and econometric analysis using recognized statistical software (e.g., R, Stata).
- Machine learning: familiarity with a range of machine learning methods and models (e.g., decision trees, random forests, neural networks, convolutional neural networks), with preference given to candidates who have applied machine learning in research or dissertation work.
- GIS software: strong proficiency in GIS software, particularly ArcGIS or QGIS, with proven ability to independently carry out complex spatial analyses.
- Communication: strong written and verbal communication skills and proven ability to collaborate effectively within diverse, interdisciplinary teams.
Preferred Qualifications
- Land use modeling: prior experience in land use modeling and change forecasting.
- Scientific writing: demonstrated proficiency in producing high-quality scientific writing.
- Geospatial data science: good knowledge of geospatial data science.
Application Instructions:
To apply, please submit the following in a single PDF document:
- Cover Letter
- Curriculum Vitae
- Graduate transcripts (both Master's and PhD - Unofficial will be accepted).
While the application deadline is June 5, we will review applications on a rolling basis and may interview and hire a candidate as soon as we find a strong fit. We encourage interested applicants to apply early.
All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority. If suitable Canadian citizens or permanent residents cannot be found, other individuals will be considered.
We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.
All University employees have a responsibility to foster a workplace that prioritizes safety in all its forms—physical, cultural, and psychological. This is achieved by promoting a safe environment, adhering to all safety laws, policies and procedures, completing all required safety training, identifying hazards and implementing controls, reporting incidents, and contributing to a culture of inclusivity and respect, while endeavoring to ensure that all colleagues feel valued and safe to express their thoughts, perspectives and concerns.
The University of Alberta is committed to creating a university community where everyone feels valued, barriers to success are removed, and thriving connections are fostered. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage women, First Nations, Métis and Inuit persons, members of visible minority groups, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression, and all those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas and the University to apply.
L’Université de l’Alberta s’engage à créer une communauté universitaire où chaque personne se sent valorisée, où les obstacles à la réussite sont éliminés et où des connexions enrichissantes peuvent se développer. Nous accueillons les demandes de toutes les personnes qualifiées. Nous encourageons les femmes; Premières nations, Métis et Inuits; membres des groupes minoritaires visibles; personnes handicapées; personnes ayant une orientation sexuelle ou une identité et une expression sexospécifique; et tous ceux qui peuvent contribuer à la diversification des idées et à l'université à postuler.
ApplyNote: This opportunity will be available until midnight June 5, 2025, Edmonton, Alberta local time.