PDRA in EEO Fire Modelling(UK Visa Sponsorship)

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Uk
May 14, 2026
Full Time Permanent
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Job Description

The University of Reading is seeking a motivated and research-driven Postdoctoral Research Associate to join the ambitious LEMONTREE project, an international initiative focused on advancing the scientific understanding of wildfire and vegetation dynamics.

This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge environmental modelling research while collaborating with an interdisciplinary team of scientists working on eco-evolutionary optimality (EEO) theory and land ecosystem processes.

About the Role

The successful candidate will play a central role in developing next-generation wildfire models capable of simulating fire occurrence and vegetation interactions on a weekly timescale. The work will involve extending existing EEO modelling frameworks by integrating processes such as:

  • Vegetation cover dynamics
    Fuel accumulation and moisture drying
    Fire ignition and burn probability
    Wildfire-environment feedback mechanisms

The researcher will also support model testing, calibration, and performance optimisation using both laboratory and field-based experimental datasets.

This role is particularly suited to candidates with strong quantitative and computational skills who are passionate about climate science, ecosystem modelling, and wildfire research.

Key Responsibilities

  • Develop and improve wildfire simulation models using eco-evolutionary theory
    Incorporate environmental and vegetation processes into fire modelling systems
    Analyse ecological datasets and evaluate model performance statistically
    Collaborate with researchers across environmental and computational disciplines
    Contribute to peer-reviewed publications and scientific reporting
    Support ongoing development of the LEMONTREE research programme

Candidate Profile

Applicants should ideally demonstrate:

  • A PhD in Environmental Science or a closely related subject before the appointment start date
    Knowledge of wildfire behaviour and environmental controls affecting fire regimes
    Experience with statistical and process-based modelling approaches
    Familiarity with eco-evolutionary optimality concepts and ecosystem modelling
    Strong programming capability in Python and R
    Experience applying statistical techniques for model validation and analysis
    Evidence of previous academic research and scientific publication activity

Sponsorship and Visa Information

International applicants may be eligible for sponsorship under the UK Skilled Worker Route, subject to meeting immigration and eligibility criteria.

Useful guidance can be found through the following official resources:

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

The University actively promotes an inclusive and supportive working environment and welcomes applications from individuals of all backgrounds. The institution supports initiatives including Athena SWAN, the Race Equality Charter, and LGBT+ inclusion programmes.

Flexible working arrangements, including part-time and job-share opportunities, may also be considered where operationally feasible.

Important Dates

  • Application Closing Date: 6 June 2026 (23:59 BST)
    Interview Date: Expected on 12 June 2026
    Anticipated Start Date: As soon as possible following appointment

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