We are looking for someone who can develop an area of work using agent-based models to explore circular economy scenarios, and who is interested in developing and delivering training courses on agent-based modelling. You will be contributing to Scottish Government-funded work on the Circular Economy and Large-Scale Modelling, working in interdisciplinary project teams to deliver policy-relevant insights. A systems thinker, you will have a passion for using your agent-based modelling skills to develop knowledge on transitioning to more sustainable, food secure and/or biodiversity-friendly futures. You will also be an excellent communicator, with an enthusiasm for presenting complex ideas to diverse audiences, and imparting knowledge to curious minds. You will have an interest in developing agent-based modelling methodology in collaboration with colleagues with diverse disciplinary backgrounds.

Main Purpose of Job

The purpose of the job is to undertake scientific research using agent-based models to explore scenarios in social-technical-ecological systems

Main Duties of Postholder

• Develop and use empirical agent-based models of social-technical-ecological systems to explore scenarios relevant to the Institute’s Scientific Challenges
• Develop and use empirical agent-based models to explore policy-relevant circular economy scenarios
• Prepare publications for the scientific literature
• Prepare reports on research progress
• Present findings at national and international meetings, workshops and conferences
• Develop and deliver training resources on agent-based modelling
• Seek, and participate in applications for, funding opportunities to cover future research

Education/Experience/Skills

Essential:

• Ph. D., covering any of agent-based modelling, circular economy, empirical agent-based modelling in a topic area relevant to the Institute’s science challenges
• Interest in developing agent-based modelling methodology
• Interest in circular economy and Institute’s science challenges
• Experience developing teaching and/or training resources
• Ability to write computer programs
• Ability to communicate complex ideas to diverse audiences
• Ability to prepare articles for submission to scientific journals
• Enthusiasm for working in interdisciplinary teams

Desirable:

• Publications in scientific journals on circular economy, agent-based modelling (generally), or the application of agent-based modelling to food security, sustainability and/or biodiversity
• Experience teaching agent-based modelling
• Experience working in one or more interdisciplinary projects
• Experience developing and experimenting with an agent-based model
• Experience applying for research funding