Biodiversity loss and nature degradation are among the main environmental challenges of our time. At PBL, we support (inter)national biodiversity-relevant policy, for which models and model-based analyses and outlooks are essential. We are currently looking for an ecological modeller with a strong technical background and interest in model applications for policy support to strengthen the GLOBIO team. GLOBIO is a global model to assess impacts of human changes in the environment (e.g. climate change, land use, pollution) on terrestrial and freshwater biodiversity and ecosystem services (www.globio.info). GLOBIO is also part of PBL's IMAGE framework: a comprehensive integrated modelling framework of interacting human and natural systems.

In this position you will contribute to the further development and application of GLOBIO in a multi-disciplinary team of colleagues. This includes the following tasks:

• Apply GLOBIO in scenario simulations to inform nature-relevant policy processes (e.g. via CBD, IPBES, OECD, UNEP).
• Translate applied questions to needs and actions for further model development (e.g. representation of pressures, feedbacks from nature to society).
• Contribute to the technical implementation of novel model components.
• Ensure the model and its applications are properly documented.
• Analyze model results and contribute writing of policy reports and scientific papers.

Academic Level

• Promoted

Skills and Experience

• You have a Ph.D. degree in a relevant field (e.g. ecology, environmental sciences, earth sciences, engineering), and preferably some years of experience as a postdoc in the field of macroecological modelling.
• You have extensive demonstrable experience in developing and applying quantitative ecological models.
• You have demonstrable experience with high-level programming languages (e.g. Python, R) and GIS software. Preference will be given to candidates with experience in programming in Python.
• You have experience with version control systems (e.g. Git) in collaborative settings.
• You are familiar with managing, handling and editing large datasets, including geospatial datasets.
• You have excellent communication skills.
• You are fluent in English (written and spoken) and you master at least a basic level of Dutch (mainly spoken) or you are willing to learn.

Are you missing some of the job requirements, but would you like to work at PBL? Motivate why you think you are a good fit in our organisation, and who knows, you might become our new colleague!

Specifics

• Pay attention: you need to apply before the closing date (not up until and including).
• From the closing date onwards, the vacancy will no longer be visible online. We therefore recommend downloading and saving the vacancy text.
• References checking or online screening (e.g. academic publications or LinkedIn profile) can be part of the selection process.
• You will be given a one-year contract. If you perform well, you will be offered a permanent contract after the year.
• The salary level within the offered scales is determined on the basis of knowledge and experience.
• If it fits with your work activities, you can partially work from home. You do, however, live and work in the Netherlands and are at least half of your worktime at the office.

Onboarding

We consider a good landing in the organisation to be very important. In your onboarding period, you will be guided by a direct colleague. This colleague is your first point of contact in the period in which you are still getting acquainted with the organisation. Furthermore, PBL has an introduction programme for new employees concerning the role and position of PBL, our ways of working, and the working culture.

Contact

• For more information about the vacancy process, please contact Ellen van Tongeren, HR advisor, via 06-11499768.
• Do you have questions about the content of this function? Please contact Martijn van der Marel via 06-15893773.