Postdoctoral Fellow - Modelling Land Use Change with Emphasis on Peatland

ALES Resource Economics & Environmental Sociology

Competition No.  -    A108451926
Closing Date  -    Dec 16, 2023

Closing Date: December 15th is the application deadline. However, we will start reviewing applications from November 10th onwards. Suitable candidates will be moved forward to the interview stage without waiting until the deadline. Therefore, we encourage suitable candidates to apply as early as possible. 

Department/Faculty 
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 spatial econometrics. 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 evaluation of climate change policy measures. 

Position Duration 
The position begins with a one-year appointment. Based on performance, extensions may be granted, with the possibility of extending up to three years. 

Compensation and Benefits 
The salary ranges from $60,000 to $65,000 CAN per annum. In addition, this position offers a benefits package as outlined in Postdoctoral Fellows Benefits. 

Minimum Qualifications 

  • Educational Background: PhD in Economics, Renewable Resources, Environmental Management, or a related discipline. 
  • Econometrics: Demonstrated expertise with advanced skills in statistical/econometric analysis using recognized statistical software such as R or Stata. 
  • GIS Software: Familiarity with tools like ArcGIS or QGIS. 
  • Communication: Effective written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively in a diverse team environment. 

Other Desired Attributes 

  • Land Use Modeling: Prior experience in land use modeling. 
  • Scientific Writing: Demonstrated proficiency in producing high-quality scientific writing. 
  • Geospatial Data Science: Good knowledge of geospatial data science. 
  • Machine Learning: A solid understanding and practical experience with machine learning techniques. 

Key Responsibilities Include 

  • Collecting and analyzing peatland land cover and disturbance data. 
  • Constructing land use change models that identify driving factors and project future peatland disturbances. 
  • Preparing presentations, drafting reports, and composing academic publications. 

How to Apply 

To apply or for more information contact Dr. Feng Qiu: feng.qiu@ualberta.ca 

Applications should be a single pdf, containing 

  1. a cover letter describing interests and skills as related to the job description, 

  1. a CV 

  1. the contact information for three references 

  1. a copy of graduate program transcript (unofficial) 

Evaluation of applications will begin on November 10th and will be rolling after that. 

We appreciate the interest of all applicants. However, only those selected for an interview will receive a response. Priority will be given to those legally entitled to work in Canada. If no suitable candidates from these groups are identified, international candidates will be considered. 

As part of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program requirements, the university must conduct recruitment efforts to hire Canadians and permanent residents before offering a job to a temporary foreign worker. To ensure we remain in compliance with these regulations, please include the appropriate statement in your application "I am a Canadian Citizen/Permanent Resident" or "I am not a Canadian Citizen/Permanent Resident". 

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply. The University of Alberta is committed to an equitable, diverse, and inclusive workforce. 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. 

At the University of Alberta, we are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates. If you require accommodations to participate in the interview process, please let us know at the time of booking your interview and we will make every effort to accommodate your needs.

How to Apply

Apply Online

Note: Online applications are accepted until midnight Mountain Standard Time of the closing date.

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. The University of Alberta is committed to an equitable, diverse, and inclusive workforce. 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.