Mathematical modelling plays a key role in driving our research at North Wyke Research (NWRes) and Rothamsted Research (RRes). It is used to conceptualise and synthesise the various strands of our interdisciplinary research on biogeochemical processes. An exciting new position has arisen to strengthen the modelling expertise at NWRes. The successful candidate will be based at North Wyke Research in Devon, delivering to BBSRC and Defra funded research and benefiting from outstanding facilities and support, joining a strong team of interdisciplinary Scientists both here and at RRes. The successful candidate will also be expected to develop their own research area within a modelling team currently working towards providing descriptive and predictive modelling of water, nutrient, carbon and energy flows at a range of scales in the grassland agricultural systems. Innovation is required in approaches to systems-based modelling capable of incorporating complexity, uncertainty and scale as impacted by drivers such as land use and climate change.

We are looking for a dynamic and motivated Scientist capable of developing modelling approaches to assess the balance between economic, environmental and social outcomes under an era of changing climate and land use. Previous experience in modelling one or more of the following areas is essential:

• biogeochemical cycling (nutrients, carbon, energy)
• emissions of diffuse pollutants to air and water
• systems modelling

The successful candidate must have a PhD in an appropriate discipline and extensive experience of appropriate modelling experience and will be expected to develop productive links with other modellers and researchers at NWRes and RRes. The potential for developing a strong research programme must be demonstrated through a good publication record and evidence of income generation. The appointment will be at Senior Research Scientist level (Grade E), salary normally in the range of £33,118 to £36,798 per annum. There may be an opportunity for a salary enhancement for an exceptional candidate.

Benefits include 27 days annual leave and the option of an average salary pension scheme with 3½% employee contributions. For informal discussion please contact Prof Les Firbank, les.firbank@bbsrc.ac.uk

Application forms and further particulars are available from our website www.rothamsted.ac.uk or from the HR Group, Rothamsted Research, Harpenden, Herts, AL5 2JQ, tel. 01582 763133 ext 2817, or rres.hr@bbsrc.ac.uk. Send completed applications to the same address.

Please quote reference 1075.

Closing date: 13 February 2009.

An Equal Opportunities Employer

As users of the disability symbol, Rothamsted Research guarantees to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for our vacancies.