Research Assistant in Biomathematics

About the role

The Department of Mathematics at the University of Sussex is inviting applications for a fixed term early career research position centred on advancing ecological modelling of soil microbial communities.

In this role, you will develop hybrid species distribution models that combine climate and landscape data to predict how microbial taxa niches shift under changing land use and environmental conditions. Your work will involve analysing complex spatial and temporal datasets, integrating mechanistic and correlative approaches to understand biodiversity patterns and their drivers.

The post is part of the Bioservices project, funded by the UKRI-Horizon Europe and aiming to improve understanding of soil biodiversity and ecosystem functions under environmental change.

The role includes collaboration with an international team of researchers and the application of your findings to improve predictions of ecosystem responses to environmental change. You will contribute to creating tools that support sustainable land management and policy decisions.

About you

We are seeking a candidate with a strong background in mathematical biology, ecological modelling, or biostatistics and a strong interest in ecological or species distribution modelling.

Prospective candidates should hold a PhD in Mathematics or be in the final stages of writing up their PhD thesis and have submitted by the start date of the position. Equivalent research experience will also be considered.  You should have familiarity in handling large and complex datasets and skilled in programming languages such as R or Python.

The ideal candidate will be capable of some independent research as well as effective teamwork, with clear communication skills for engaging with colleagues and external collaborators. A strong interest in interdisciplinary research and applying mathematical techniques to ecological data and environmental challenges is highly desirable.

About our School

Please find further information regarding the School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences.

The School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences is proud to hold a Bronze Athena Swan Award.

Why work here

Find out more about our reward and benefits package.

Find out about our equality, diversity and inclusion

Further Key Information

Please contact Dr Marianna Cerasuolo (m.cerasuolo@sussex.ac.uk) for informal enquiries.

Candidates should include in their application the following:

• Academic CV
• A personal statement (500 words maximum) outlining their research interests and their research experience to date
• Official academic transcripts

The University of Sussex values the diversity of its staff and students, and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds.

The University requires that work undertaken for the University is performed in the UK. 

Visa Sponsorship Queries: This role may be eligible for sponsorship. Please consult our Skilled Worker Visa information page  for further information about Visa Sponsorship. 

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