Do you have a strong background in environmental modelling and the microbial world? We are looking for a project researcher to work on the EU-Horizon-funded TULIP project. Your research goal? Studying the spread and health impacts of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and the role of plastics in their distribution in water. Can’t wait to answer these important questions? Read on and join our team!
Job description project researcher
In the coming two years you will be part of the TULIP project. The focus of the project is the fate and transport of plastic litter and microplastics, coated with a biofilm.
Microbes and antibiotics easily attach to plastics, turning litter and microplastics into potential AMR incubators. This creates a favourable micro-environment for the exchange of resistant genes. As part of the project, our project partners in the Philippines and Italy will take field samples and carry out laboratory experiments. The data provided by the local partners can be used to validate assumptions made in the models. You will collaborate with them and other partners during this project.
Your main task is to carry out a pan-European assessment of key drivers and pressures of plastics and AMR in aquatic environments. Additionally you will perform a quantitative risk assessment of interactions between plastics and AMR. You will collaborate with a PhD student who develops models for plastics and AMR with case studies in Italy and the Philippines. In addition, you will co-design a modelling and integrated simulation tool to identify risks and benefits of various scenarios and interventions.
Your duties
- Conduct a pan-European data-mapping exercise on plastics-AMR drivers, pressures and interactions.
- Co-design and implement scenario-based models for decision support.
- Scaling up catchment level models developed by the TULIP PhD candidate.
- Explore sources, leakages, transport pathways, and fate of both macro and microplastics.
The TULIP project
This position is part of the international research project ‘Community-based engagement and inTerventions to stem the tide of antimicrobial resistance spread in the aqUatic environments catalysed by cLImate change and Plastic pollution interactions’ (TULIP).
Qualifications project researcher
Due to the duration of this assignment (two years), we are looking for a candidate who can step into this project and work independently but also has a drive to work towards a goal together with an interdisciplinary team! Furthermore, we ask:
- A degree in hydrology, environmental sciences, microbiology or related field. In addition, we ask a few years of experience in which you conducted research in a relevant area;
- Proven experience in numerical modelling in at least hydrology or environmental emissions;
- Enthusiasm for expanding system understanding based on combining environmental, microbiological and health data with model development;
- Affinity with inter-disciplinary science;
- Technical skills to work with large datasets using scripts (R, Python, Matlab, etc.).
What we offer
We offer a temporary position (1.0 FTE) at Deltares for the duration of the project (2-years). After this assignment, there is the option to discuss the possibilities of continuing employment within Deltares. Furthermore, we offer:
- Excellent training opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Deltares offers a market conform salary. Scaling will be based on your experience. We are looking for an intermediate/medior career level candidate.
- ABP average salary pension, 34 days of vacation, vitality budget and a mobility budget.
- Here you can find more information about our attractive terms of employment.
Apply
Are you interested in this position and do you fit the qualifications? Then apply directly by uploading your CV and a letter outlining your motivation, by February 28th, 2025.The first round of interviews will be held on March 10 and 12.. Candidates will be notified after the application deadline.
Application tip: Modelling skills are important for this vacancy. Don’t forget to explain in your application how you applied them!
The position is based in the Netherlands. Working remotely from another country is not possible. We have offices in Delft and Utrecht. For this role you can expect to travel between the two offices often to meet with your mentor and your team. You have the option to work from both places. If you have any questions about the vacancy, you can contact Brian de Bruin (HR Recruitment Officer; sollicitatie@deltares.nl; +31615267686).
