Researcher on valuation of ecosystems and ecosystem accounting
Deadline: 01.04.2024
Norwegian Institute for Nature Research
The Norwegian Institute for Nature Research (NINA) is an independent foundation that researches nature and the interaction between nature and society. NINA was established in 1988 and has more than 330 employees today. The head office is situated in Trondheim, with branch offices in Tromsø, Lillehammer, Bergen, and Oslo. NINA Oslo has approximately 60 employees situated in modern offices in Ullevål.
NINA Oslo carries out research on aquatic ecology, terrestrial ecology, landscape analysis and GIS, urban environment, environmental economics, social research, and large carnivores. We aim to be a leading research environment in Norway in ecosystem accounting, with emphasis on GIS and spatial modelling. Our research team also disseminates popular science and communicates research results. NINA's employees collaborate with other research communities nationally and internationally.
Our goal is to contribute to sustainable societal development and to deliver research-based knowledge about biodiversity, climate, and society. NINAs motto is: “samarbeid og kunnskap for framtidas miljøløsninger” (collaboration and knowledge for future environmental solutions), and our core values are quality, integrity, teamwork, and enthusiasm.
Climate change and ecosystem decline are among the major societal challenges of our time. We need increased knowledge about the relationships between nature and society to solve them. Do you want to be part of the team and help develop important tools for an environmentally sustainable future? Then you should apply for this exciting position at NINA Oslo!
We are looking for a researcher in a permanent position at NINA's office in Oslo. The role will entail work on valuation of ecosystems, natural capital/ecosystem accounting, nature risk and related spatial modelling tools.
About the position
In this position, you will develop and contribute to research projects related to the valuation of ecosystem services and ecosystem accounting, both nationally and internationally, as well as projects related to land use change, nature risk and related reporting systems and indicators.
You will ideally have good competence in environmental/ecological economics, in modelling and GIS, and preferably knowledge of legal instruments relevant for land use and nature management. Alternatively, you may have good financial expertise and knowledge of ecology and Norwegian nature management. It is an advantage if you can speak Norwegian or another Scandinavian language.
You will be involved in developing and participating in research projects related to ecosystem accounting, mapping of ecosystem services, land use and reporting systems for nature. This will cover a broad range of research spanning international research projects to local assessments, and customers that you will be able to work with in a collaborative and constructive way. The role will also involve maintaining and developing good contact with decision makers, research networks and commercial customers. Qualifications and personal characteristics
We are looking for a person who has:
• PhD or master's degree in environmental or ecological economics and/or ecology, nature management or biology with knowledge of ecological economics.
• Spatial modelling and GIS skills.
• Knowledge of the international systems for valuation of ecosystem services.
• A structured, creative, independent and methodical approach and experience from project management.
• Good collaboration and problem-solving skills.
• Presentation and communication skills.
You will ideally also have some of the following skills:
• Knowledge of and/or experience from Norwegian nature management.
• Research experience.
• Fluent English skills and preferably a working knowledge of Norwegian or another Scandinavian language.
NINA offers:
• A workplace in one of Europe's leading environmental institutes.
• Varied work with diverse projects and collaboration partners, and good opportunities for professional development.• Competitive salary as a researcher in NINA.
• Flexible working hours.• Good pension scheme and group life insurance.
• A pleasant, creative, and exciting work environment in modern premises.
The application must contain:
• Letter of application with a description of your background and why you are applying for the position.
• CV with education, work experience and an overview of publications, diplomas, and certificates.
References to be provided upon request.
Selected qualified candidates will be called in for an interview.
For NINA, a good working environment is characterized by diversity. We encourage qualified candidates to apply regardless of gender, functional ability, cultural background, or whether you have been out of work for a period. If necessary, the workplace will be adapted for people with disabilities.
NINA's everyday language is Norwegian, and language training is provided.
Questions relating to the position should be directed to:
Research Director Lajla Tunaal White, phone: +47 902 99 957,
Researcher Bart Immerzeel, phone: +47 467 50 336 or
Senior researcher David Barton, phone: +47 924 42 111
