University of Kassel, Position for a scientific assistant, code number 15271

The Center for Environmental Systems Research at the University of Kassel is offering two PhD Candidate positions (50%) in the context of the SPREAD project funded by German Federal Ministry of Education and Research.

The SPREAD (Scenarios of Perception and Reaction to Adaptation) project aims to develop spatially and temporally explicit computer simulations which model the diffusion of changed patterns of behaviour and interpretation in the face of climate change in Germany. The simulations will be based on a) qualitative surveys, b) network analyses, c) a survey on problem perceptions, options for actions, patterns of attitudes as well as d) spatially explicit demographic and lifestyle data including their projection until 2020 which are available to the project partners.

Tasks: To conceptualise social phenomena and to develop agent-based models in Java, to collaborate in presentations and publications.

Requirements: Degree in computer science, mathematics or systems science; good methodical knowledge; interest in interdisciplinary science, basic knowledge of Java or agent-based modelling.

For information please feel free to contact Andreas Ernst, ernst@usf.uni-kassel.de

Closing date for applications: 11th of February 2011.

Please apply electronically to our university’s administration (email to

pvabt3@uni-kassel.de) and mention code number 15271.