Post-Doctoral Research Opportunity in Coupled Human-Natural Systems

The Sustainable and Resilient Economy (SRE) program (http://sre.osu.edu/) at The Ohio State University has an opening for a post-doctoral research fellow in dynamic coupled human and natural systems with an emphasis on economic modeling.  The appointee will collaborate with an interdisciplinary research team to develop dynamic models of integrated economic and environmental processes from regional to global scales. A primary responsibility will be work supported by a newly funded multi-year project to (1) develop an integrated regional economic model of food, energy, and water systems; (2) develop policy scenarios; and (3) apply sustainability assessment methods. The appointee will be able to develop cutting edge modeling skills that incorporate behavioral heterogeneity, uncertainty and robust policy design into an integrated economic model of the Great Lakes region. As part of this project, the person will have ongoing interactions with a team of highly collaborative faculty, other postdoctoral researchers, and graduate research assistants and will gain exposure to a wide range of dynamic integrated modeling methods and research skills.  In addition, the appointee will have the opportunity to work with faculty to develop new funding proposals; develop manuscripts; prepare presentations and present findings at local, regional, and national meetings;  mentor graduate students working on SRE projects; and build relationships with external partners interested in integrated modeling approaches to evaluate sustainability and resilience goals.

Applicants must hold a Ph.D. degree in economics, applied economics, environmental economics, or a related discipline (e.g., applied mathematics, applied statistics), or expect to complete all degree requirements before December 31, 2017.  The ideal candidate will have strong quantitative and modeling skills, programming experience, and a demonstrated ability to work with an interdisciplinary team on integrated environmental and economic systems modeling. This is a full-time, 12-month position available for an annual period, renewable up to three years.

The appointee’s work will be directed by Associate Professor Yongyang Cai, in collaboration with a highly collaborative group of SRE researchers that includes economists, other behavioral and social scientists, environmental scientists, and engineers. The SRE program seeks to advance sustainability science by developing a more holistic understanding of sustainable and resilient production and consumption systems, human-environment interactions, and innovations in sustainable technologies and governance.

Interested candidates should forward their letter of application, CV, and contact information for three references to the SRE Program Coordinator: Melissa Amos (amos.126@osu.edu). Applications received by September 30th will be given priority although applications will continue to be reviewed until the position is filled.