PhD Scholarship: Modeling the Spread of Novel Ecosystems
Aarhus University, Denmark
Application deadline: February 1, 2025, 23:59 CET
Project Title:
Forecasting the near-future spread of Novel Ecosystems under alternative environmental scenarios
Project Summary:
Biotic assemblages are transforming at unprecedented rates due to direct and indirect anthropogenic drivers. These changes are giving rise to novel ecosystems (NEs), characterized by species compositions and ecological functions that differ from historical baselines. NEs present both risks and opportunities for global biodiversity and ecosystem functions.
This PhD project focuses on modeling and forecasting NE spread to inform biodiversity management and climate resilience strategies. Key tasks include:
- Developing Dynamic Global Vegetation Models (DGVMs) to simulate ecosystem transitions under various climate and socio-economic scenarios.
- Investigating feedbacks between NEs and climate, including impacts on carbon storage, albedo, and evapotranspiration.
- Conducting scenario-based simulations to identify NE hotspots and their effects on biodiversity and ecosystem services.
The selected candidate will work at the Department of Biology, Center for Ecological Dynamics in a Novel Biosphere (ECONOVO), Aarhus University, Denmark, gaining expertise in ecological modeling, high-performance computing, and complex data integration.
Position Requirements
Education and experience:
- A Master’s degree (or at least one year into a Master’s program for a 4+4 scheme) in biology, ecology, environmental science, climate science, or related fields.
- Experience in ecological modeling, preferably with DGVMs or large-scale ecosystem models.
- Proficiency in programming (Python, R, or C++) and high-performance computing environments.
- Advanced statistical knowledge for handling large datasets and validating models.
- Strong teamwork and communication skills, with the ability to convey scientific results effectively.
Specific qualifications:
- Expertise in environmental or ecosystem modeling.
- Knowledge of version control systems like Git.
- Familiarity with climate scenario analyses using Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSPs) and IPCC projections.
Scholarship Conditions
- Location: Aarhus University, Denmark.
- Start date: May 2025 or later.
- The project will be conducted at the ECONOVO Center, a dynamic and interdisciplinary research environment.
How to Apply:
- Read the application guide thoroughly to ensure you meet the requirements and include all necessary documents.
- Complete your application online (opens December 1, 2024): apply here.
- Select “February 2025 Call” and the program “Biology.”
- Choose the study title: “Forecasting the near-future spread of Novel Ecosystems under alternative environmental scenarios (FnsNEu).”
Required Documents:
- Project description (½-4 pages) outlining your research ideas and plans.
- Updated CV.
- Motivation letter.
Contact Information:
For further details about the project, contact Associate Professor Alejandro Ordonez: alejandro.ordonez@bio.au.dk
Aarhus University values equality, diversity, and career development and encourages all qualified candidates to apply, regardless of their personal background or circumstances.
