Oregon State University, Department of Biological & Ecological Engineering

Position:  The Department of Biological and Ecological Engineering at Oregon State University (OSU) announces the availability of a full-time position for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to develop coupled human/natural systems models supporting alternative futures assessments.  The emphasis of this position is on developing models and associated datasets addressing coupled human/natural systems, including land use/land cover dynamics, vegetation and carbon dynamics and related processes under current and project future climate for use in a mixed process/multiagent-based modeling framework (Envision).

Appointment:  Full-time, 1.0 FTE, 12-month fixed-term appointment, with possibility of renewal for a total of 4 years subject to performance and availability of funds.

Responsibilities and Duties:

This position supports a multi-institutional efforts aimed at assessing regional climate change impacts and developing modeling and decision tools supporting alternative future assessments at multiple scales ranging from small river basins to the Pacific Northwest region using the Envision modeling framework (http://envision.bee.oregonstate.edu). Specific responsibilities include:



1.      Developing/implementing models related to land use/land cover change, climate adaptation and ecosystem response in C/C++;

2.      Acquiring, developing and manipulating appropriate spatial datasets necessary to conducting analyses using these models;


    Integrating these models into the Envision modeling and analysis framework and assist in conducting alternative future assessments addressing current and projected future climate over 30-100 year timeframes;

    Developing documentation for model codes and metadata for any spatial datasets;

    Assisting in the development of project publications, reports and presentations.




The candidate is expected to work primarily in Corvallis, but may involve occasional travel to project sites and meetings

Qualifications:  A PhD in computational ecology, biological/ecological engineering, computer science, or related field is required. Experience working with complex simulation models, spatial data analysis, and software development in C/C++ is required.  Demonstrated experience working in a team environment, experience with software development on the Microsoft Windows platform, and good oral and written communication skills are advantageous.  It is preferred that the candidate is available to start between January 1, 2011 and March 1, 2011.  A demonstrable commitment to promoting and enhancing diversity is preferred.

University and Community:  OSU is one of only two American universities to hold the Land-, Sea-, Sun- and Space-Grant designations and is the only Oregon institution recognized for its “very high research activity” (RU/VH) by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. OSU is comprised of 11 academic colleges with strengths in natural resources, earth dynamics and sustainability, life sciences, entrepreneurship and the arts and sciences. OSU has facilities and/or programs in every county in the state, including 12 regional experiment stations, 41 county extension offices, a branch campus in Bend, and the Hatfield Marine Science Center (HMSC) on the Oregon coast. The university has an institution-wide commitment to diversity, multiculturalism and community. We actively engage in recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and student body that include members of historically underrepresented groups. We strive to build and sustain a welcoming and supportive campus environment. OSU provides outstanding leadership opportunities for people interested in promoting and enhancing diversity, nurturing creativity and building community.

Application Closing: For full consideration, applications must be received by February 3, 2011.

To Apply:  Applications for employment should consist of a letter of scientific interest, a detailed curriculum vita that includes a description of relevant skills and experiences, future research interests, a list of publications, and the names and addresses (including email addresses) of at least four references. To access application instructions, go to https://jobs.oregonstate.edu/applicants/Central?quickFind=57901

Inquiries about the position may be directed via email to Dr. John Bolte (boltej@engr.orst.edu). Oregon State University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.