Urban Ecosystem Modeller

We seek a qualified Urban Ecosystem Modeller research scientist/post-doctoral scholar to join the RISE project at the University of Waterloo for a one-year term.

This team member will be responsible for ensuring coordination across 5 sub-projects that are developing integrated models to understand, predict, and manage stormwater, terrestrial carbon, and wetland ecology in new residential developments. Our models treat stormwater, trees, and wetlands (natural and stormwater ponds) as an integrated system, modelling and analysing the interactions between these systems that influence stormwater retention on site, tree growth, and greenhouse gas exchanges and biodiversity in wetlands.

The Urban Ecosystem Modeller will identify, lead, and monitor best practices for model integration. The team member will also coordinate capstone project outreach and publication efforts.

Required qualifications:

1. Demonstrated expertise in interdisciplinary simulation modelling applied to urban carbon, stormwater, and/or wetlands.
2. Demonstrated understanding and ability to apply best practices in simulation modelling, including model documentation, sensitivity analysis, and uncertainty analysis.
3. A strong academic/training record commensurate with these required skills.
4. Demonstrated excellence in academic publication, commensurate with career stage.
5. Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and respectfully in diverse, interdisciplinary research settings.
6. Demonstrated ability to follow directions and complete task in a timely manner.
7. Demonstrated ability to work independently, while seeking feedback and guidance as needed.
8. Demonstrated ability to lead publications and other outreach activities.

Desired qualifications:

1. Basic understanding of the role of natural and engineered green infrastructure to sequester carbon and manage stormwater runoff.
2. Expertise in advanced statistical, simulation, and optimization methods.
3. Basic training in urban design.
4. Demonstrated ability to interact with various planning actors/stakeholders, including professional planners and developers.
5. Understanding of site plan development, ideally in an Ontario context.