PhD Position in Land Use Change at the University of Basel


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PhD Position in Land Use Change

The research group Global and Regional Land Use Change at the Department of Environmental Sciences is looking for two PhD student candidates. Our research focuses on the analysis of impacts of different drivers and policies on land use change.

Under the current process of global change, one of the key challenges for land use decisions is to sustainably use biomass to feed a growing world population, to preserve ecosystems, and to substitute fossil fuels by renewable energy. However, the interconnected processes of global change and their impact on land on different spatial scales, as well as the trade-offs faced in the use of biomass are not well understood.

Your Position

The prime goal of the positions are to contribute to a better understanding of impacts of global change and different policies on land use. The positions include two hours of teaching per week in Bachelor or Master Courses in Geography. The PhD projects will combine geography, agricultural and environmental economics. You will gain hands-on experience in numerical modelling working both autonomously and directly with other group members and external collaborators.

Your Profile

Applicants must possess an academic qualification (MSc) in agricultural economics, environmental economics, geography or a closely related field, and should have experience with relevant empirical methods (basic ability in programming and statistical analysis). Prior knowledge of CGE modelling including the software GAMS would be an advantage. A good level of English, excellent communication skills and a willingness to collaborate are essential. Some knowledge of German would be useful.

You are Offered

The positions are for four years and includes two hours of teaching per week. You will join a supportive, collaborative and cooperative work environment with regular meetings and exchanges. We support participation in a broad and well-established international research network. Further, we offer modern research facilities and excellent scientific environment at Basel University. Salary and social benefits are provided according to University of Basel rules.

Application / Contact

Please submit your complete application documents, including a one-page letter stating your motivation, experience and skills, a CV and contact details of at least two academic references via the online recruiting platform. Only online applications will be accepted.

For further information, please contact Prof. Dr. Ruth Delzeit, sekretariat-landusechange@unibas.ch. Review of applications will begin December 15th, 2020, but the advert will remain open until the positions are filled.