CREAF is seeking a postdoctoral researcher for IMPROMED project (Improving the modelling of key forest dynamic processes to forecast long-term changes in Mediterranean forests under climate change) with ref. PID2023-152644NB-I00, funded by Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades.
CREAF is seeking an experienced, hearted researcher with a strong background in process-based modelling of Mediterranean. This researcher will work in improving the process-based model MEDFATE in its capacity to predict drought-related forest decline. This work will include using field and remote sensing data to increase the ability of the model to predict drought-related defoliation and mortality, while taking into account other sources of model uncertainty.
A full-time contract is offered (37.5 hours per week) with a planned incorporation in October 2025. It will last at least 17 months, with the possibility of extending it if required and if the budget allows. The offered salary is €35,596.43 gross per year (corresponding to category I3).
Evaluate the quality of remote sensing products used to assess Mediterranean forest decline against forest plot data gathered in the IMPROMED project.
Evaluate the capacity of the process-based forest modelling framework MEDFATE to predict drought-driven defoliation and mortality, using forest health monitoring data, forest inventory data and remote sensing products.
Propose improvements (design or parameterization) in the tree mortality sub-model derived from evaluation results.
Use the process-based modelling framework to forecast tree defoliation, mortality and wildfire risk at the regional scale.
Contribute to the general development of a modelling framework of Mediterranean forest landscape function and dynamics (e.g. initialization, parametrization, or post-processing).
Networking with other national and international groups in Mediterranean forest modeling.
Lead high quality scientific outputs in the form of journal publications and contribution to relevant policy reports.
A completed PhD on a topic related to the current project description (e.g., forestry or forest ecology).
Excellent scientific publication record.
Proven expertise in developing or using process-based models of forest functioning and/or dynamics.
A strong knowledge of Mediterranean forest ecology.
Demonstrated high skills in R programming language.
Contrasted capacity to lead work and team up with other researchers.
Advanced knowledge of English.
Experience in evaluating climate and management scenarios of Mediterranean landscapes or forest functioning and dynamics.
Experience in the evaluation of biodiversity or ecosystem services and wildfire risk assessment of Mediterranean forests.
Experience in team coordination and management in an academic/professional environment.
Candidates with a certified disability of 33% or more will be prioritized, provided the disability is compatible with the position's responsibilities.
Admission of candidates: Applicants must apply for the offer and attach the requested documentation, a curriculum vitae in English and a cover letter (maximum 500 words), until September 25th, 2025. Applications submitted to any portal other than the CREAF job board and the instructions included therein will not be accepted.
Pre-selection: assessment of compliance with the minimum requirements of the job offer.
Selection: evaluation of the pre-selected candidates through scoring based on objective criteria, interviews with a shortlist of candidates, and a proposed exercise.
Final decision: if a suitable candidate is identified, they will be formally informed of their selection, and all other participants in the selection process will be notified by email.