The Department of Coastal Studies in East Carolina University (ECU) is seeking a post-doctoral scholar with expertise in agent-based or similar rules-based modeling systems as part of an NSF-funded DISES project investigating ecosystem-based adaptation to extreme storm events in Fiji and Puerto Rico https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2206479). The postdoc will be responsible for developing an agent-based model to describe expected behaviors and their outcomes in response to storm events in mangrove-reef social-ecological systems. The successful candidate will demonstrate expertise with agent-based or similar rules-based models. The appointment will be for 1 year, renewable for a 2nd year contingent on performance and availability of project funds.

The main duties of the postdoc will be to: 1) develop an integrative, rules-based model for storm adaptation in dynamic coastal social-ecological systems; 2) liaise with an international project team for model development, calibration and validation, and interpretation; 3) work with, and where necessary, mentor PhD students and field team staff; 4) lead data processing, analysis, and writing of papers; 5) present results at conferences and webinars; and 6) help lead workshops and broader impact activities. The postdoc will be supervised by a multidisciplinary research team, with specific expertise in various components of coastal social-ecological systems, however the team does not include an expert in rules-based modelling. It is thus expected that the postdoc will lead development of the rules-based model independently, using previously acquired expertise and technical support from their professional networks. The postdoc will be mentored by Drs. Siddharth Narayan, David Lagomasino and Nadine Heck at ECU and work closely with colleagues at Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) and Virginia Tech. The location of the position is flexible, and the successful candidate can be based either at ECU’s Coastal campus in the Coastal Studies Institute, on Roanoke Island, North Carolina, or at ECU’s Greenville Campus. The position will require travel between the two ECU campuses and to Fiji. Approximately 100% of the postdoctoral scholar’s time will be devoted to the project activities described above and related scientific research. Scholars are expected to demonstrate compliance with established guidelines and regulatory standards for research including biosafety, responsible conduct of research and human subjects training.

English Proficiency
Excellent written and oral communication skills
A PhD in natural resource economics, mathematics, geography, environmental studies, natural resource management, or similar disciplines
Experience and/or training with rules-based models such as, but not limited to, agent-based models
Ability to work as an independent researcher and as part of an international, interdisciplinary team

None

Expertise and a record of publications on agent-based or similar rules-based models.
Knowledge of programming languages like Java, Python, Matlab, or C++.
Experience with integrative social-ecological modeling.
Experience or familiarity with island/mangrove/coral reef social-ecological systems.

To be considered for this position, all applicants must apply through PeopleAdmin and attach, 1) their CV or resume, 2) cover letter, 3) 1 – 2 sample research papers and 4) names and contact information of 3 references. Appointments are typically for a one-year period. Five years (typically five appointments of one year) is typically the maximum total period that any individual may serve as a Scholar. The University, in its sole discretion has the option to renew or extend any appointment, subject to the availability

East Carolina University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action University and accommodates individuals with disabilities. Proper documentation of identity and employability is required at the time of employment.

04/29/2024

Yes

05/15/2024

Not Applicable

https://ecu.peopleadmin.com/postings/70869

East Carolina University is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer and seeks to create an environment that fosters the recruitment and retention of a more diverse student body, faculty, staff and administration. We encourage qualified applicants from women, minorities, veterans, individuals with a disability, and historically underrepresented groups. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their race/ethnicity, color, genetic information, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, political affiliation, or veteran status.

Individuals requesting accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA) should contact the Department of Human Resources at (252) 737-1018 (Voice/TTY) or ADA-Coordinator@ecu.edu.

Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. ECU participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States. If highest degree earned is from an institution outside of the U.S. and its territories, final candidates are required to have their degree validated as equivalent to the degree conferred by a regionally accredited college or university in the U.S.

If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the Office of Human Resources at (252) 328-9847 or toll free at 1-866-489-1740 or send an email to employment@ecu.edu. Our office is available to provide assistance Monday-Friday from 8:00-5:00 EST