Job description

Two positions as Researchers are available at Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Synthesis (CEES), Department of Biosciences, University of Oslo

One position is for a period of one year and the second position is for two years. Starting date as soon as possible.

The positions will work within a larger research network to understand the effect of environmental variation on the spatio-temporal dynamics at national, regional, and global scales. In particular, the positions will focus on predicting the current and future seasonal responses of COVID-19 from extracted environmental sensitivity, and extrapolate patterns globally. The network composition and work is described in more detail in the project summary.

Qualification requirements

The Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences has a strategic ambition is to be among Europe’s leading communities for research, education and innovation. Candidates for these fellowships will be selected in accordance with this, and expected to be in the upper segment of their class with respect to academic credentials.

• Applicants must hold a degree equivalent to a Norwegian doctoral degree in ecology (broadly speaking), epidemiology, computational biology, statistical modelling or mathematical modelling.
• Doctoral dissertation must be submitted for evaluation by the closing date. Only applicants with an approved doctoral thesis and public defence are eligible for appointment.
• Fluent oral and written communication skills in English

The following qualifications will count in the assessment of the applicants:

• Proven research skills – A good track-record within relevant fields.
• Data collection and analysis – Proven ability to collate data, interpret and present results to a high standard using a range of specialised research techniques. Practice working with large datasets.
• Model fitting and inference – Experience in mathematical modelling, preferably, of infectious disease transmission dynamics, Statistical modelling methods (including Bayesian) and strong programming skills in R, C or C++.

Personal skills

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work independently but also having strong ability to be part of a larger interdisciplinary and international research team
• Ability to take initiative and present and discuss results with supervisors

We offer

• Salary NOK minimum 523 200 – 605 500 per annum depending on qualifications in position as Researcher (position code 1109)
• Attractive welfare benefits and a generous pension agreement
• Professionally stimulating working environment
• Vibrant international academic environment
• Oslo’s family-friendly surroundings with their rich opportunities for culture and outdoor activities

How to apply

The application must include

• Cover letter (statement of motivation, summarizing scientific work and research interest)
• CV (summarizing education, positions, pedagogical experience, administrative experience and other qualifying activity)
• Copies of educational certificates, academic transcript of records and letters of recommendation
• A complete list of publications and up to 5 academic works that the applicant wishes to be considered by the evaluation committee
• Names and contact details of 2-3 references (name, relation to candidate, e-mail and telephone number)

The application with attachments must be delivered in our electronic recruiting system. Foreign applicants are advised to attach an explanation of their University's grading system. Please note that all documents should be in English (or a Scandinavian language).

In assessing the applications, special emphasis will be placed on the documented academic qualifications as well as the candidates motivation and personal suitability. Interviews with the best qualified candidates will be arranged.

It is expected that the successful candidate will be able to complete the project in the course of the period of employment.

Formal regulations

According to the Norwegian Freedom of Information Act (Offentleglova) information about the applicant may be included in the public applicant list, also in cases where the applicant has requested non-disclosure.

The University of Oslo has an agreement for all employees, aiming to secure rights to research results etc.

The University of Oslo aims to achieve a balanced gender composition in the workforce and to recruit people with ethnic minority backgrounds.

Contact information

For further information please contact:

• Prof. Nils Chr. Stenseth, phone: +47 22854584, e-mail: n.c.stenseth@ibv.uio.no

For questions regarding the recruitment system please contact: HR adviser Nina Holtan, +47 22854424, e-mail: nina.holtan@mn.uio.no.

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