Agroecosystems Modeller

Rothamsted Research are looking for a post-doctoral scientist (or equivalent experience) in mathematics, computer science or environmental sciences who has an interest in modelling natural systems (soil and crop processes, and water nutrient pollution) to inform the transition to more sustainable food production.

Together with UKCEH, the British Geological Survey and the Plymouth Marine Laboratory, we have secured funding to research the delivery, fate and impact of agricultural chemicals to freshwater and estuarine systems in the UK. This research requires the development and use of computer simulation models to explore scenarios of UK-wide climate, land-use and other management change on nutrient losses and pollutants from agriculture. Along with new empirical data from commercial farms, the project will identify opportunities to balance food production with a heathier environment.

The Post Holder Will

• Develop code to describe movement and processes that determine the movement of chemicals from agriculture, especially nutrients, into the environment, and liaise closely with other scientists who are developing models to describe the impact of these substances in fresh and estuarine waters.
• Refine and adapt code to simulate the loss of soil nitrogen to the atmosphere at regional and national scales especially in the form of the greenhouse gas nitrous oxide (N2O)
• Analyse outputs from models and contribute to publications that report results in the scientific literature and at conferences.
• Contribute to project level recommendations to reduce pollutants from agriculture.
  
  

We anticipate a number of high-impact, multidisciplinary articles from this work. This post will provide opportunities for the successful candidate to hone skills in writing scientific articles for peer-review and for grant income-earning and so provides an excellent springboard for someone who is seeking a career in the area of mathematical agri-environmental science with direct practical relevance.

The post will be embedded in the multidisciplinary environment at Rothamsted and the successful candidate will interact with many on-site staff including plant, crop and livestock scientists, agronomists, economists, soil scientists, pest and disease specialists as well as other modellers and mathematicians. The project is funded by the BBSRC as part of the Institute Strategic Programme AgZero and involves collaboration with scientists from several different UK research organisations as well as liaison with commercial farmers. Thus, the post offers considerable opportunity to develop a network from which to build a career in the area and requires a certain amount of UK travel to other locations for project meetings.

The post is suitable for a highly numerate scientist, with proven experience of programming (preferably with compiled programming languages such as C or Fortran) and of mathematical techniques. Ability to understand computer programme code will be tested at interview.

This vacancy is for a 30 month fixed term. This search attracts a salary ranging from £31,350 to £39,039 per annum for 37 hours per week depending on qualifications and experience. The post is largely desk based and suitable for a hybrid working arrangement.

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Established in 1843, Rothamsted Research is one of the UK's leading Research Institutes delivering world class agricultural science. Our commitment to learning and development, equality, diversity and inclusion and flexibility in working arrangements creates a positive work life balance and enables a welcoming environment for all prospective employees.

As a Disability Confident Employer we are committed to making reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process and all disabled candidates (as defined by the Equality Act 2010) who satisfy the minimum criteria for the role will be guaranteed an interview. If this is required, please contact us. Applications from candidates irrespective of their background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion or age are welcomed, providing the required criteria is met.

We have an attractive benefits package including 30 days annual leave, a generous pension scheme, Employee Assistance Programme and an attractive campus offering cultural and recreational activities.