PDRA in EEO Fire Modelling(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

The University of Reading is seeking an ambitious and highly motivated researcher to join its internationally recognised environmental science community as a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Eco-Evolutionary Optimality (EEO) Fire Modelling.

This role forms part of the innovative LEMONTREE project — Land Ecosystem Models based On New Theory, Observations and Experiments — which focuses on improving scientific understanding of wildfire and vegetation interactions using advanced ecosystem modelling approaches.

About the Opportunity

The successful candidate will work alongside an interdisciplinary team of environmental scientists and modellers to develop new theoretical and computational approaches for simulating wildfire behaviour within ecosystems.

A major focus of the role will involve enhancing existing EEO-based wildfire frameworks to model fire occurrence on a weekly timescale. This includes integrating ecological and environmental variables such as:

• Vegetation dynamics and land cover
  Fuel accumulation and drying processes
  Fire susceptibility and ignition behaviour
  Wildfire-environment feedback systems

The position also involves evaluating and refining model performance using experimental field and laboratory data.

This is an exciting opportunity for researchers interested in climate systems, ecological modelling, wildfire science, and environmental data analysis.

Main Responsibilities

As PDRA in EEO Fire Modelling, you will:

• Develop and improve wildfire simulation models using eco-evolutionary theory
  Incorporate environmental and vegetation processes into dynamic fire modelling systems
  Conduct statistical analyses and model validation exercises
  Collaborate with scientists across ecosystem, climate, and computational disciplines
  Contribute to research publications, technical reports, and project outputs
  Support the advancement of the wider LEMONTREE research initiative

Candidate Requirements

The University is looking for applicants who can demonstrate:

• A PhD in Environmental Science or a closely related field by the appointment start date
  Strong understanding of environmental drivers and wildfire processes
  Familiarity with process-based and statistical fire modelling approaches
  Knowledge of eco-evolutionary optimality concepts and ecosystem simulations
  Good programming expertise in R and Python
  Experience with statistical methods for model assessment and optimisation
  Evidence of research achievement, including scientific publications or equivalent outputs

Sponsorship & International Applicants

This role may qualify for sponsorship under the UK Skilled Worker Route, depending on eligibility criteria and immigration requirements.

Useful official resources include:

• UK Skilled Worker Visa Guidance
  UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI)
  Working in the UK – Government Guidance
  UK Research and Innovation (UKRI)
  Natural Environment Research Council (NERC)

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

The University of Reading is committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and supportive workplace environment. The institution actively supports initiatives including the Athena SWAN Charter, the Race Equality Charter, and LGBT+ inclusion programmes.

Applications from individuals of all backgrounds are encouraged. Flexible working arrangements, including part-time and job-share options, may also be considered where operationally possible.

Important Dates

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