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Job Description Summary Job title Postdoctoral Research Assistant Division Social Sciences Department Environmental Change Institute (ECI), School of Geography and the Environment (SoGE) Location South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QY Grade 7: £38,674 -£46,913 per annum Grade and salary Hours A less experienced candidate may be appointed at Grade 6 (£34,982 - £40,855 per annum), with a commensurate adjustment in either the essential criteria, responsibilities or duties. Full time Contract type Fixed-term from 1 March 2025 – 15 February 2028 Reporting to Titular Associate Professor Dr. Jesús Aguirre Gutiérrez Vacancy reference 177167 Applications are particularly welcome and encouraged from women, black, and minority ethnic candidates, who are under-represented in posts in SoGE. SoGE are committed to equality and values diversity. Additional information The School of Geography and the Environment holds an Athena Swan Silver award in recognition of our commitment and success in addressing gender equality. The School of Geography and the Environment is committed to promoting a culture of equality, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace, including the undertaking of appropriate training as opportunities arise and/or when asked to do so The role We are seeking a researcher that is enthusiastic about fieldwork and with expertise in remote sensing data collection and application to assess ecological function and diversity in tropical forests. The ideal candidate will have both remote sensing skills and hands-on experience in ecological fieldwork. They will join the Biodiversity and Earth Observation Lab within the larger Biodiversity and Ecosystems Programme at the Environmental Change Institute. This position involves transdisciplinary research as part of an international collaborative programme combining Ecology and Remote Sensing to understand and quantify tropical forest responses to environmental change. The position includes several field trips across tropical regions to gather data and collaborate with local partners. Fieldwork will focus on data collection from permanent vegetation plots, capturing spectral and vegetation structure data (LiDAR) via drones, and potentially preparing workshops for collaborators in the UK and abroad. Key activities will include 1. Exploring Earth Observation Sensors: Utilize the latest Earth Observation tools (e.g., high-resolution multispectral data from Planet, drone-based LiDAR) to enhance mapping of ecosystem structure, function, and biodiversity metrics. 2. Drone Imagery Analysis: Collect and analyse drone imagery to map biodiversity and ecosystem conditions on a fine scale, refining and validating satellite products. 3. Collaboration on Machine-Learning Models: Work with experts in machine learning and computer science to map vegetation structure (e.g., height, canopy cover) on a larger scale. 4. Integration of Remote Sensing Metrics: Develop products describing ecosystem health using metrics derived from remote sensing. The initial focus will be on the effects of biodiversity on forest resilience across tropical regions, closely collaborating with machine-learning specialists to apply cutting-edge techniques for identifying ecosystem functionality. As a Postdoctoral Research Associate (PDRA), you will lead various academic research activities, manage fieldwork in tropical countries and potentially in the UK, and work with a diverse team of researchers, stakeholders, and project partners. Responsibilities include data analysis, preparing manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals, and organising and sharing data for broader use as directed by the line manager. There may also be opportunities to co-supervise Master’s and PhD students. The successful candidate must hold, or be near completion of, a PhD in a relevant field, or have equivalent experience, and possess experience analysing ecological, Earth Observation, and other spatial datasets. Ideally, you have experience collecting ecological and remote sensing data in tropical forests. The successful candidate should have experience working with colleagues from diverse cultural and academic backgrounds, as collaboration across cultural boundaries is essential. You will have excellent communication skills, including the ability to write for publications, present research proposals and results, and represent the research group at meetings. Responsibilities    In support of your research development, and as a secondary commitment, undertake some teaching within SoGE, including participating in assessment and university examining. Contribute to and enhance the academic life and community of the SoGE, including taking on citizenship roles. Advance research on remote sensing of biodiversity, ecosystem function, and natural capital. PDRA Job Description and Person Specification 2            Deploy a range of methods to create models and maps of ecosystem functioning, resilience, and biodiversity from areas under study, including analysing drone and satellite-based multispectral and LiDAR data. Use drones to collect high-resolution data in study landscapes, mapping ecosystem condition and biodiversity metrics at fine spatial scales, and using these maps to test and refine satellite-based approaches. Develop methods to assess the impact of environmental change on ecosystem functioning. Actively engage with team members, building networks and relationships with internal and external project partners. Support and engage in communications, knowledge exchange, and policy engagement activities. Manage your academic research and administrative activities, including small-scale project management to coordinate multiple aspects of work, such as logistics and permits for fieldwork. Collaborate with colleagues, the wider university, and partner institutions. Prepare manuscripts for submission to peer-reviewed journals and present papers at conferences. Participate in lab and departmental activities, including weekly meetings, relevant seminars, and discussion groups. Contribute ideas and analyses for new research projects and potential follow-up funding. Provide guidance to junior members of this research programme, including research assistants, PhD students, and/or project volunteers. Selection criteria Essential selection criteria          Hold, or be near completion of, a PhD/DPhil in a relevant subject area, or equivalent experience. A less experienced candidate who are near completion will be appointed at Grade 6 with a commensurate adjustment in either the essential criteria, responsibilities or duties Experience in the collection and/or analysis of ecological and remote sensing data in tropical environments. Demonstrated understanding of relevant areas of ecology and biodiversity science. Proficiency in R programming and Google Earth Engine (or similar tools) for spatial and statistical analysis. Experience publishing in peer-reviewed journals in a timely manner. A positive, collaborative approach to academic research and teamwork. Commitment to advancing diversity and inclusion. Experience working in multicultural environments. Excellent communication skills, including writing for publication, presenting research proposals and results, and representing the research group at meetings. Desirable selection criteria      Strong publication record, appropriate to career stage. Experience in ecological modelling. Interest in applying Earth Observation tools to understand forest resilience to environmental change. Enthusiasm for interdisciplinary collaboration. Proficiency in Spanish and/or Portuguese is a plus. Pre-employment screening Standard checks If you are offered the post, the offer will be subject to standard pre-employment checks. You will be asked to provide: proof of your right-to-work in the UK; proof of your identity; and (if we haven’t done so already) we will PDRA Job Description and Person Specification 3 contact the referees you have nominated. If you have previously worked for the University we will also verify key information such as your dates of employment and reason for leaving your previous role with the department/unit where you worked. You will also be asked to complete a health declaration so that you can tell us about any health conditions or disabilities for which you may need us to make appropriate adjustments. Please read the candidate notes on the University’s pre-employment screening procedures at: https://www.jobs.ox.ac.uk/pre-employment-checks About the University of Oxford Welcome to the University of Oxford. We aim to lead the world in research and education for the benefit of society both in the UK and globally. Oxford’s researchers engage with academic, commercial and cultural partners across the world to stimulate high-quality research and enable innovation through a broad range of social, policy and economic impacts. We believe our strengths lie both in empowering individuals and teams to address fundamental questions of global significance, while providing all our staff with a welcoming and inclusive workplace that enables everyone to develop and do their best work. Recognising that diversity is our strength, vital for innovation and creativity, we aspire to build a truly diverse community which values and respects every individual’s unique contribution. While we have long traditions of scholarship, we are also forward-looking, creative and cutting-edge. Oxford is one of Europe's most entrepreneurial universities and we rank first in the UK for university spin-outs, and in recent years we have spun out 15-20 new companies every year. We are also recognised as leaders in support for social enterprise. Join us and you will find a unique, democratic and international community, a great range of staff benefits and access to a vibrant array of cultural activities in the beautiful city of Oxford. For more information, please visit www.ox.ac.uk/about/organisation. School of Geography and the Environment The School of Geography and the Environment (SoGE) is a dynamic, diverse, interdisciplinary department at the University of Oxford combining natural and social science research interests and analytical skills, underpinned by geography’s tradition of working in many different situations and contexts. The School is internationally recognized for the quality of its teaching, research and wider engagement across the breadth of human geography, physical geography and environmental studies. Based within the Social Sciences Division, the School incorporates three affiliated research centres as well as Geography: the Environmental Change Institute (ECI), the Smith School of Enterprise and Environment (SSEE), and the Transport Studies Unit (TSU). The School is based partly within the Oxford University Centre for the Environment (OUCE) building and partly in the Dyson Perrins building, which was completely refurbished in 2022. The School’s physical location enables us to easily connect with many academic departments and organisations across the University, and we collaborate with many of them. For example, the School is an active participant in fostering the Oxford University Networks for the Environment (ONE), which links up over 1000 individuals within the University around the themes of Biodiversity, Climate, Energy, Food and Water. Our research spans issues related to the environment, climate change, energy, transport, development, geopolitics and cities. The School’s research portfolio totalled approximately £105million across more than 170 research projects in 2021/22, from a wide variety of funders. Much of this work is collaborative, and we currently estimate that research with our partners takes place in over 70 countries across the globe. We aim to contribute to the common good, and many of our researchers actively engage in advising local, national and international organisations; in giving written and oral contributions to government consultations both locally and nationally; and in engaging with others through policy, partnerships, business and social enterprise. PDRA Job Description and Person Specification 4 The School also provides world-class, multidisciplinary teaching. Our Undergraduate Honour School gives undergraduate students research-led teaching across the breadth of human and physical geography and environmental studies by internationally recognised academic staff. Two hundred and fifty graduate students from a wide range of nationalities currently study for taught and research postgraduate degrees with us, in our International Graduate School. For more information the School please visit: http://www.geog.ox.ac.uk The School is committed to supporting the career development of all its members. Everyone is encouraged to undertake professional training from the range offered by the School, the Division and the University's People, Organisation and Development Unit. The School has a mentoring scheme and all staff are encouraged to work with a mentor during their time at SoGE; academic staff are also encouraged to have regular meetings with the Head of School to plan their career progression. Since 1973 the Transport Studies Unit has established an international research reputation in transport research. Based within the world-leading School of Geography and the Environment at the University of Oxford, the TSU approaches global transport challenges from social science and holistic perspectives. By advancing understandings of the systems, processes and practices that shape the way people and goods move, the TSU hopes to inspire and inform change towards a more sustainable, just and accessible transport system. Our position within Geography and the University fosters interdisciplinary collaboration with researchers in other parts of the University and based elsewhere. From geography to engineering, energy research to science and technology studies, and beyond, the TSU draws on the latest relevant developments in various disciplines and research fields. Our core team of researchers come from various disciplinary backgrounds, bringing with them a range of insight and expertise which enriches our research practice. Most TSU staff are full-time researchers working on specific externally funded projects. In addition to the core staff, it also hosts a number of academic visitors working more independently on cross-cutting issues. There is also an active group of international DPhil students working with individual staff. The TSU has an excellent track record in collaborative projects. TSU researchers often works in partnership with colleagues in many UK universities, and has very active and well-established links with universities and research institutes across the EU, the Americas, Asia and Africa. They also work with partners from international agencies, transport policymakers, local authorities, businesses and industry, employers, non-governmental organisations, and activists. For more information on the TSU please visit: http://www.tsu.ox.ac.uk Since 1991, the Environmental Change Institute has worked alongside partners in government, business, academia and the community to understand environmental change and explore possible responses to the risks and opportunities it poses. Promoting an interdisciplinary approach, ECI explores sustainable solutions to global problems ensuring a fairer and more equal world for people today and in the future. ECI has over 100 academics and researchers working around the world, establishing itself as an active and influential player in environmental change science. With a well-established track record in relation to Infrastructure, climate, energy, ecosystems, food, land use governance and water. ECI is a leading player in a number of large research activities. In 2022 there are over 80 research projects totalling over £57 million funded through the UK’s research councils and charitable foundations and trusts. We are proud of all our work but of particularly note we host the multi-agency UK Centre for Research into Energy Demand Solutions (CREDS), understanding the role of energy demand change in accelerating the transition to a zero carbon energy system. As part of Oxford University’s strategic research Oxford Net Zero is an interdisciplinary research initiative working to track progress, align standards and inform effective solutions in climate science, law, policy, economics, clean energy, transport, land and food systems and greenhouse gas removal and storage. PDRA Job Description and Person Specification 5 In addition, The Oxford Programme for Sustainable Infrastructure Systems (OPSIS) is at the forefront of research and education to enable sustainable and resilient infrastructure. While the Leverhulme Centre for Nature Recovery Centre aims to investigate how to halt and reverse ongoing nature and biodiversity loss, by understanding how implement and finance nature recovery that is scalable, effective and socially just. The ECI is also home to the MSc in Environmental Change and Management, the School’s first taught postgraduate masters’ programme, established in 1994. Through this MSc the ECI have successfully trained over 700 upcoming environmental leaders who comprise a lively and increasingly influential alumni community. For more information on the ECI please visit: http://www.eci.ox.ac.uk The Smith School of Enterprise and the Environment (SSEE) was established at the University of Oxford in 2008 with a generous benefaction by the Smith family. We bring enterprise – public and private - together with worldleading teaching and research to achieve global net-zero emissions and sustainable development. Located within the internationally top-ranked School of Geography and the Environment, we work in close collaboration with leading academics across Oxford and beyond. Decisions made this decade will determine the future of humanity and the planet. To stop the climate crisis, we need to shift global economic and financial systems towards sustainability. The Smith School’s approach combines academic excellence with real-world impact. Our research shapes business and government policy and practice. We offer innovative evidence-based solutions to the environmental challenges facing humanity. We apply expertise in economics, finance, business and law to tackle environmental and social challenges in six areas: water, climate, energy, biodiversity, food and the regenerative economy. We equip the next generation through undergraduate and graduate teaching as part of the top-ranked School of Geography and the Environment. SSEE’s new master’s course in Sustainability, Enterprise and the Environment (MSc SEE) is already one of the most applied to at Oxford. Our executive education programmes empower business leaders and policy-makers throughout the world to take action. SSEE’s Advisory Board, Business Fellows and our wide-ranging external partnerships bring together experts from industry, consultancy, governments and NGOs to achieve the vision of a cleaner, fairer and more prosperous future Social Sciences Division The University’s academic departments and faculties are organised into four large groups, known as Academic Divisions (Social Sciences, Mathematical, Physical and Life Sciences (MPLS), Medical Sciences, and Humanities). The academic divisions are responsible for academic oversight of the teaching and research of their constituent departments and faculties, for strategic and operational planning, and for personnel and resource management. The Head of the Social Sciences Division is Professor Timothy Power, who is a member of the University’s Council.The Social Sciences Division is a world-leading centre of research and education in the social sciences. The social sciences at Oxford are distinctive for both their depth and breadth, with activity spanning fourteen departments and faculties and one cross-divisional unit. (These are as follows: Law, the Saïd Business School, Economics, Politics and International Relations, the Blavatnik School of Government, the School of Anthropology and Museum Ethnography, International Development, Sociology, Social Policy and Intervention, the Oxford Internet Institute, Archaeology, the School of Interdisciplinary Area Studies, Education, the School of Geography and the Environment and the Oxford Martin School.) Interdisciplinary links within and beyond the university are strong, extending to the humanities, natural sciences, and medical sciences. PDRA Job Description and Person Specification 6 Academic and research staff and research students are engaged in world-leading research that challenges current ideas and theories and is tackling some of the major challenges facing humanity, such as sustainable resource management, migration, governance, poverty and development, and justice. REF 2014 confirmed Oxford as the UK powerhouse for research in the social sciences, where Oxford accounted for more world-leading (4*) research than any other institution, across the social sciences units of assessment to which it made submissions. The division has an extensive portfolio of external funders and collaborators, with competitively-awarded external research income exceeding £40million per year. Researchers in the division engage actively beyond academia and their research has influence in many spheres from innovation in public policymaking to practitioner communities such as law, business, education, social welfare and NGOs. The division also delivers an exceptional range of high quality educational programmes (undergraduate, postgraduate taught and postgraduate research), all of which are underpinned by the innovative research being undertaken by our academics. Programmes range from those at the interface of the natural sciences, through to professionally-oriented provision in areas such as business, law and education. The division is home to several of Oxford’s most widely recognised teaching programmes, such as Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE); the BCL; the MPhils in International Relations, in Economics, and in Development Studies; the MBA and EMBA; and the nationally regarded PGCE. For more information please visit: http://www.socsci.ox.ac.uk/ How to apply Applications are made through our online recruitment portal. Information about how to apply is available on our Jobs website https://www.jobs.ox.ac.uk/how-to-apply. Your application will be judged solely on the basis of how you demonstrate that you meet the selection criteria stated in the job description. As part of your application you will be asked to provide details of two referees and indicate whether we can contact them now. You will be asked to upload a CV and a supporting statement. The supporting statement must explain how you meet each of the selection criteria for the post using examples of your skills and experience. This may include experience gained in employment, education, or during career breaks (such as time out to care for dependants) Please upload all documents as PDF files with your name and the document type in the filename. (Customise this statement to confirm the document(s) you would like the applicant to attach, but make sure that you keep the reference to PDF. All applications must be received by midday UK time on the closing date stated in the online advertisement. If you currently work for the University please note that: - as part of the referencing process, we will contact your current department to confirm basic employment details including reason for leaving although employees may hold multiple part-time posts, they may not hold more than the equivalent of a full time post. If you are offered this post, and accepting it would take you over the equivalent of fulltime hours, you will be expected to resign from, or reduce hours in, your other posts(s) before starting work in the new post. Information for priority candidates A priority candidate is a University employee who is seeking redeployment because they have been advised that they are at risk of redundancy, or on grounds of ill-health/disability. Priority candidates are issued with a redeployment letter by their employing department(s). PDRA Job Description and Person Specification 7 If you are a priority candidate, please ensure that you attach your redeployment letter to your application (or email it to the contact address on the advert if the application form used for the vacancy does not allow attachments). If you need help Application FAQs, including technical troubleshooting advice is available at: https://staff.web.ox.ac.uk/recruitment-support-faqs Non-technical questions about this job should be addressed to the recruiting department directly [Insert your departmental contact details]. To return to the online application at any stage, please go to: www.recruit.ox.ac.uk. Please note that you will receive an automated email from our online recruitment portal to confirm receipt of your application. Please check your spam/junk mail if you do not receive this email. PDRA Job Description and Person Specification 8 Important information for candidates Data Privacy Please note that any personal data submitted to the University as part of the job application process will be processed in accordance with the GDPR and related UK data protection legislation. For further information, please see the University’s Privacy Notice for Job Applicants at: https://compliance.admin.ox.ac.uk/job-applicant-privacypolicy. The University’s Policy on Data Protection is available at: https://compliance.admin.ox.ac.uk/dataprotection-policy. The University’s policy on retirement The University operates an Employer Justified Retirement Age (EJRA) for very senior research posts at grade RSIV/D35 and clinical equivalents E62 and E82 of 30 September before the 70th birthday. The justification for this is explained at: https://hr.admin.ox.ac.uk/the-ejra. For existing employees on these grades, any employment beyond the retirement age is subject to approval through the procedures: https://hr.admin.ox.ac.uk/the-ejra. There is no normal or fixed age at which staff in posts at other grades have to retire. Staff at these grades may elect to retire in accordance with the rules of the applicable pension scheme, as may be amended from time to time. Equality of opportunity Entry into employment with the University and progression within employment will be determined only by personal merit and the application of criteria which are related to the duties of each particular post and the relevant salary structure. In all cases, ability to perform the job will be the primary consideration. No applicant or member of staff shall be discriminated against because of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. PDRA Job Description and Person Specification 9 Benefits of working at the University Employee benefits University employees enjoy 38 days’ paid holiday, generous pension schemes, flexible working options, travel discounts including salary sacrifice schemes for bicycles and electric cars and other discounts. Staff can access a huge range of personal and professional development opportunities. See https://hr.admin.ox.ac.uk/staff-benefits Employee Assistance Programme As part of our wellbeing offering staff get free access to Health Assured, a confidential employee assistance programme, available 24/7 for 365 days a year. Find out more https://staff.admin.ox.ac.uk/health-assured-eap University Club and sports facilities Membership of the University Club is free for University staff. It offers social, sporting, and hospitality facilities. Staff can also use the University Sports Centre on Iffley Road at discounted rates, including a fitness centre, powerlifting room, and swimming pool. See www.club.ox.ac.uk and https://www.sport.ox.ac.uk/. Information for staff new to Oxford If you are relocating to Oxfordshire from overseas or elsewhere in the UK, the University's Welcome Service includes practical information about settling in the area, including advice on relocation, accommodation, and local schools. See https://welcome.ox.ac.uk/ There is also a visa loan scheme to cover the costs of UK visa applications for staff and their dependants. See https://staffimmigration.admin.ox.ac.uk/visa-loan-scheme Family-friendly benefits We are a family-friendly employer with one of the most generous family leave schemes in the Higher Education sector (see https://hr.web.ox.ac.uk/family-leave). Our Childcare Services team provides guidance and support on childcare provision, and offers a range of high-quality childcare options at affordable prices for staff. In addition to 5 University nurseries, we partner with a number of local providers to offer in excess of 450 full time nursery places to our staff. Eligible parents are able to pay for childcare through salary sacrifice, further reducing costs. See https://childcare.admin.ox.ac.uk/. Supporting disability and health-related issues (inc menopause) We are committed to supporting members of staff with disabilities or long-term health conditions, including those experiencing negative effects of menopause. Information about the University’s Staff Disability Advisor, is at https://edu.admin.ox.ac.uk/disability-support. For information about how we support those going through menopause see https://hr.admin.ox.ac.uk/menopause-guidance Staff networks The University has a number of staff networks including for research staff, BME staff, LGBT+ staff, disabled staff network and those going through menopause. Find out more at https://edu.admin.ox.ac.uk/networks The University of Oxford Newcomers' Club The University of Oxford Newcomers' Club is run by volunteers that aims to assist the partners of new staff settle into Oxford, and provides them with an opportunity to meet people and make connections in the local area. See www.newcomers.ox.ac.uk. Research staff The Researcher Hub supports all researchers on fixed-term contracts. They aim to help you settle in comfortably, make connections, grow as a person, extend your research expertise and approach your next career step with confidence. Find out more https://www.ox.ac.uk/research/support-researchers/researcher-hub Oxford’s Research Staff Society is a collective voice for our researchers. They also organise social and professional networking activities for researchers. Find out more https://www.ox.ac.uk/research/supportresearchers/connecting-other-researchers/oxford-research-staff-society PDRA Job Description and Person Specification 10
Dyson Perrins Building, Hinshelwood Road
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**Postdoctoral Research Assistant** We are seeking a researcher that is enthusiastic about fieldwork and with expertise in remote sensing data collection and application to assess ecological function and diversity in tropical forests. The ideal candidate will have both remote sensing skills and hands-on experience in ecological fieldwork. They will join the Biodiversity and Earth Observation Lab within the larger Biodiversity and Ecosystems Programme at the Environmental Change Institute. This position involves transdisciplinary research as part of an international collaborative programme combining Ecology and Remote Sensing to understand and quantify tropical forest responses to environmental change. The position includes several field trips across tropical regions to gather data and collaborate with local partners. Fieldwork will focus on data collection from permanent vegetation plots, capturing spectral and vegetation structure data (LiDAR) via drones, and potentially preparing workshops for collaborators in the UK and abroad. **Key activities will include** 1. **Exploring Earth Observation Sensors:** Utilize the latest Earth Observation tools (e.g., high-resolution multispectral data from Planet, drone-based LiDAR) to enhance mapping of ecosystem structure, function, and biodiversity metrics. 2. **Drone Imagery Analysis:** Collect and analyse drone imagery to map biodiversity and ecosystem conditions on a fine scale, refining and validating satellite products. 3. **Collaboration on Machine-Learning Models:** Work with experts in machine learning and computer science to map vegetation structure (e.g., height, canopy cover) on a larger scale. 4. **Integration of Remote Sensing Metrics:** Develop products describing ecosystem health using metrics derived from remote sensing. The initial focus will be on the effects of biodiversity on forest resilience across tropical regions, closely collaborating with machine-learning specialists to apply cutting-edge techniques for identifying ecosystem functionality. The successful candidate must hold, or be near completion (thesis submitted) of, a PhD in a relevant field, or have equivalent experience, and possess experience analysing ecological, Earth Observation, and other spatial datasets. Ideally, you have experience collecting ecological and remote sensing data in tropical forests. The successful candidate should have experience working with colleagues from diverse cultural and academic backgrounds, as collaboration across cultural boundaries is essential. You will have excellent communication skills, including the ability to write for publications, present research proposals and results, and represent the research group at meetings. **Applications for this vacancy should be made online. You will be required to upload a CV and supporting statement as part of your application, explaining how you meet the essential and desirable criteria for this post.** For further guidance and support, please visit **https://www.jobs.ox.ac.uk/how-to-apply** **The closing date for applications is midday on 31 January 2025.** **Interviews are anticipated to take place in February 2025, with exact dates to be confirmed** **Enquiries related to the recruitment process are to be directed to** ** [recruit@ouce.ox.ac.uk](mailto: recruit@ouce.ox.ac.uk)** **We offer very generous benefits, some of which are:** • Generous holiday allowance of 38 days including bank holidays • Hybrid working • Membership of the Oxford staff pension scheme • Discounted bus travel • Cycle loan scheme • Plus, many other University benefits The School of Geography and the Environment are committed to fostering a culture of equality, diversity, and inclusion. Applications are particularly encouraged from women, Black, and minority ethnic candidates, who are under- represented in academic posts at Oxford. The school holds an Athena SWAN Silver Award in recognition of its commitment to gender equality.
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Environmental Change Institute (ECI), School of Geography and the Environment (SoGE), South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QY
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Postdoctoral Research Assistant We are seeking a researcher that is enthusiastic about fieldwork and with expertise in remote sensing data collection and application to assess ecological function and diversity in tropical forests. The ideal candidate will have both remote sensing skills and hands-on experience in ecological fieldwork. They will join the Biodiversity and Earth Observation Lab within the larger Biodiversity and Ecosystems Programme at the Environmental Change Institute. This position involves transdisciplinary research as part of an international collaborative programme combining Ecology and Remote Sensing to understand and quantify tropical forest responses to environmental change. The position includes several field trips across tropical regions to gather data and collaborate with local partners. Fieldwork will focus on data collection from permanent vegetation plots, capturing spectral and vegetation structure data (LiDAR) via drones, and potentially preparing workshops for collaborators in the UK and abroad. Key activities will include 1. Exploring Earth Observation Sensors: Utilize the latest Earth Observation tools (e.g., high-resolution multispectral data from Planet, drone-based LiDAR) to enhance mapping of ecosystem structure, function, and biodiversity metrics. 2. Drone Imagery Analysis: Collect and analyse drone imagery to map biodiversity and ecosystem conditions on a fine scale, refining and validating satellite products. 3. Collaboration on Machine-Learning Models: Work with experts in machine learning and computer science to map vegetation structure (e.g., height, canopy cover) on a larger scale. 4. Integration of Remote Sensing Metrics: Develop products describing ecosystem health using metrics derived from remote sensing. The initial focus will be on the effects of biodiversity on forest resilience across tropical regions, closely collaborating with machine-learning specialists to apply cutting-edge techniques for identifying ecosystem functionality. The successful candidate must hold, or be near completion (thesis submitted) of, a PhD in a relevant field, or have equivalent experience, and possess experience analysing ecological, Earth Observation, and other spatial datasets. Ideally, you have experience collecting ecological and remote sensing data in tropical forests. The successful candidate should have experience working with colleagues from diverse cultural and academic backgrounds, as collaboration across cultural boundaries is essential. You will have excellent communication skills, including the ability to write for publications, present research proposals and results, and represent the research group at meetings. Applications for this vacancy should be made online. You will be required to upload a CV and supporting statement as part of your application, explaining how you meet the essential and desirable criteria for this post. For further guidance and support, please visit https://www.jobs.ox.ac.uk/how-to-apply The closing date for applications is midday on 31 January 2025. Interviews are anticipated to take place in February 2025, with exact dates to be confirmed Enquiries related to the recruitment process are to be directed to [recruit@ouce.ox.ac.uk](mailto: recruit@ouce.ox.ac.uk) We offer very generous benefits, some of which are: • Generous holiday allowance of 38 days including bank holidays • Hybrid working • Membership of the Oxford staff pension scheme • Discounted bus travel • Cycle loan scheme • Plus, many other University benefits The School of Geography and the Environment are committed to fostering a culture of equality, diversity, and inclusion. Applications are particularly encouraged from women, Black, and minority ethnic candidates, who are under-represented in academic posts at Oxford. The school holds an Athena SWAN Silver Award in recognition of its commitment to gender equality.
Description of POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCH ASSISTANT
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Research Grade 7: £38,674 - £46,913 (A less experienced candidate may be appointed at Grade 6 (£34,982 - £40,855 per annum), with a commensurate adjustment in either the essential criteria, responsibilities or duties.)
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