Within the Chair group Applied Mathematics we have a vacancy for a PhD on the subject quantification of resilience. Resilience is an emergent property of Socio-ecological Systems (SES, like fisheries, forestry systems, agro-food systems, etc.) and intensively studied at Wageningen University & Research (WUR). The resilience of SES is of vital importance given the increasing demand for their services by an increasing world population and in the face of climate change. In this PhD position you will work on the development of new quantitative methodologies for the assessment of resilience in SES based on agent-based modelling, and apply these methodologies in different case studies in collaboration with scientists from other disciplines and stakeholders. Collaboration is intended with people both from within WUR and within the 4TU, primarily in the programme "Designing Systems for Informed Resilience Engineering (DeSIRE)", an ambitious programme that brings together many scientists from 12 faculties of all four universities in 4TU and various stakeholders. Good communication skills and an keen interest in multidisciplinary research are clear benefits. The work is expected to lead to a PhD-thesis. You may also participate in the teaching duties of the group.

The ideal candidate

• has obtained a MSc in applied mathematics, theoretical biology, theoretical physics or a closely related field with a strong quantitative component;
• has tangible experience in (simulation) modelling, preferably with prior experience in agent-based modelling and/or resilience research;
• has tangible experience in programming, for instance in R, C++, Matlab, and preferably also in software for agent-based modelling, like NetLogo;
• has a keen interest in multidisciplinary research and collaboration with scientists from various backgrounds, including environmental, animal, and social sciences;
• has good communication skills;
• is fluent in oral and written English.

We offer you a full-time position for a period of 12 months with the intention to extend it with 36 months for PhD's. The gross salary per month is € 2042,= in the first year rising to € 2612,= per month in the fourth year. The position is In a creative and inspiring working environment, with opportunities for self-development in the many aspects of mathematics covered by Biometris.

Wageningen University & Research

Biometris is the central group for mathematics and statistics at Wageningen University and Research Centre. The group consists of about 75 people, 50 permanent staff and 25 PhDs and postdocs. Education and consultation are pivotal for the societal role of Biometris. Education is at the very heart of the university and Biometris provides nearly all BSc courses on mathematics, statistics, and research methodology at Wageningen UR, as well as numerous other courses for MSc and PhD students, post-docs and industry. Biometris also provides statistical and mathematical consultancy and training to researchers inside and outside Wageningen UR.
Within Biometris, we focus our research on the development of mathematical and statistical techniques that can be applied to the Life Sciences. In this way, we contribute to the scientific and societal impact of Wageningen UR. Our vision can be expressed by the slogan: "Quantitative methods brought to life". Consequently, our research is generally done in collaboration with other research groups both in and outside Wageningen.
Our research focusses on the themes of Statistical Genetics and Genomics, Systems Biology and Ecology, Food and Health Risk Assessment, and Big Data in Life Sciences. Our capital lies in the mathematical and statistical expertise of our employees. We therefore strive to keep our employees motivated and scientifically up-to-date and offer ample opportunities for personal development.
For general information, see: www.biometris.wur.nl