PDRA in Terrestrial Carbon Cycling (National Centre for Earth Observation)

University of Edinburgh

We seek a post-doctoral research associate to join the National Centre for Earth Observation (NCEO) Carbon Cycle Theme at the School of GeoSciences at the University of Edinburgh. Our objective is to improve understanding of key processes in carbon cycling by linking observations from towers, aircraft and satellites to terrestrial carbon cycle models. A critical challenge for process understanding and prediction is to address the scaling problem resulting from spatial heterogeneity and linked processes operating on different time scales.

The research will involve parameterizing carbon cycle models, and creating a framework for testing models against multiple EO datasets. Experience in parameter optimisation, model construction, calibration and application is essential, together with knowledge of biosphere-atmosphere interactions and terrestrial carbon cycling. Skills in the use of eddy flux, biometric and remotely sensed data in regional modelling applications, and familiarity with data assimilation techniques would be particularly valuable. The PDRA will undertake intensive research collaboration with UK partners in NCEO and with European partners in the GEOCARBON project. This will be a two year position initially, with a likelihood of extension.

Informal inquiries are welcome: contact Prof Mathew Williams (email: mat.williams@ed.ac.uk). See also www.nceo.ac.uk

Start date: 1 November 2011

Fixed Term: 2 years

Salary Scale: £29,972 - £35,788

Please Quote Ref: 3014783

Closing Date: 22 September 2011

For further particulars and an application pack visit our website (www.jobs.ed.ac.uk) or telephone the recruitment line on 0131 650 2511.