We are seeking a researcher with expertise in species distribution modelling and biodiversity assessment to join Dr Martin Wilkes' research group, which specialises in informing freshwater biodiversity policy through ecological modelling.
Following an unprecedented decision by the Colombian Special Jurisdiction for Peace to recognise the Cauca River as a victim of war, the School of Life Sciences is collaborating with specialist Rights of Nature lawyers to develop a framework for determining war reparations for the river ecosystem. The project, funded by The British Academy, will combine legal scholarship with biodiversity modelling to set out concrete plans for restoring the Cauca River system, as well as creating a blueprint to advance understanding of how the rights of nature can be operationalised in the future.
In this role, you will develop and apply species distribution models for fish and invertebrate populations in the river basin, conduct trend attribution analysis linking biodiversity changes to the impacts of armed conflict, and contribute to an interdisciplinary expert report to the Colombian Special Jurisdiction for Peace. You will process and analyse historical biodiversity data, work with remote sensing data to assess catchment history, and present findings to legal teams, stakeholders, and local officials.
The School of Life Sciences (University of Essex) provides access to a high-performance computer cluster and extensive research facilities supporting cutting-edge ecological research.
The successful candidate will hold a relevant doctoral level degree in ecology, environmental science, freshwater biology or related subjects, or equivalent professional experience. You should have proficiency in statistical programming using R, experience working with large environmental datasets, and knowledge of freshwater ecosystem dynamics and restoration principles.
You will have the ability and willingness to complement and enhance the school's education and research strengths and areas of planned development. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, and the capacity to translate complex scientific findings for non-scientific audiences are all essential to this post. Fluency in Spanish is also desirable.
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