Postdoctoral Research Fellow - Computational Models of Coupled Natural and Human Systems

Description

A team of faculty members affiliated with the University of Notre Dame’s Just Transformations to Sustainability Initiative is seeking a highly qualified and motivated Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Computational Models of Coupled Natural and Human Systems, with a strong interest in combining forest ecology and environmental policy. This is a full-time research-focused position with no teaching responsibilities. The initial appointment is for 12 months, with the possibility of renewal for an additional 6-12 months. The successful candidate will work collaboratively with investigators from the Keough School of Global Affairs, Department of Biological Sciences, and the JTS Initiative to conduct research on local communities’ forest conservation efforts.

The ideal candidate will possess expertise in computational modeling, including but not limited to statistical analysis and mechanistic computational models. They should also have experience  in the analysis of remote sensing products. The successful candidate will also be expected  to carry out fieldwork related to local community forest conservation efforts in Peru. 

The fellow will join a dynamic, interdisciplinary team working at the intersection of data innovation and sustainability science, aligned with the values and principles of integral ecology.

 

The postdoctoral fellow will assume the following key responsibilities:

 

• Carry out spatial analysis of Peru forest cover change using remote sensing products
• Use an existing computational model of forest dynamics to evaluate ecological consequences of local conservation efforts
• Carry out field work in Peru, as a member of an interdisciplinary research team, to evaluate and improve computational models
• Work with partners to communicate research results in order to make the conservation efforts of local communities more visible to policymakers
• Present research findings at scientific conferences and contribute to academic journal publications

The fellows will  join a cohort of postdoctoral scholars supported by the Just Transformations to Sustainability Initiative, Notre Dame's University-wide effort to build a sustainable future where people and nature flourish together. The cohort works on sustainability research that engages ecological, social, economic, and ethical dimensions together rather than in isolation.

This is a full-time, in-person position with an initial appointment of one year.

Qualifications

Required Qualifcations:

• Ph.D. (in hand by the starting date) in Forest Ecology, Environmental Science, Environmental Studies, Conservation Biology, or a related field with a strong quantitative focus.
• Strong computational skills, with expertise in data analysis, machine learning, modeling, and programming languages such as Python, R, MATLAB, or similar.
• Ability to spend several weeks in Peru carrying out fieldwork with local partners.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present complex research concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Preferred Qualifcations:

• Familiarity with the use of spatial analysis of remote sensing data for environmental conservation, ecosystem monitoring, and climate change research.
• Experience working in multidisciplinary teams with researchers from diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to communicate in Spanish is a plus as is previous field research experience in the Global South

Application Instructions

Applications will close on September 7, 2026. Review of applications and interviews will take place on a rolling basis. 

To apply, interested candidates must submit a CV, cover letter, and a recent publication or dissertation chapter. Candidates should be prepared to share references upon request.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The University of Notre Dame seeks to attract, develop, and retain the highest quality faculty, staff and administration. The University is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or age in employment. Moreover, Notre Dame prohibits discrimination against veterans or disabled qualified individuals, and complies with 41 CFR 60-741.5(a) and 41 CFR 60-300.5(a). We strongly encourage applications from