Postdoc in Discovering Carbon-Free Pathways for Sustainable Fisheries - DTU Aqua

DTU Aqua’s section for Ecosystem-based management is looking for a research associate to discovering carbon-free pathways for sustainable, low-impact fisheries in Denmark.
Would you like to work to improve the sustainability of fisheries and help the sector implement innovative solutions that reduce CO2 emissions? DTU Aqua is looking for a postdoctoral researcher interested in studying the best way to decarbonize fishing fleets, including displacement of fishing efforts resulting from spatial fishing restrictions and effort optimization to reduce the carbon footprint of (Danish) fisheries. Technical and spatial management of fisheries is becoming more recognized as a feasible approach to mitigating the impact of fishing on exploited resources, particularly on vulnerable habitats and sensitive species, as well as reducing the use of energy input in fisheries.

We are looking for a researcher interested in creating and using mathematical models to predict the economic and ecological impact of changes in the fishing effort allocations of Danish fishing fleets. As part of the shift towards sustainable fishing and full enforcement of the EU Common Fisheries Policy, including efforts to achieve reduction by 2030 and climate-neutral fisheries by 2050, there is a pressing need for more in-depth research to understand feasible paths alongside the specific challenges faced by regional fleets, such as rising fuel prices, existing fleet structure, available stocks, and habitats, and their future change in distribution under a changing climate. The work will support achieving the goals of the EU Blue Economy and Ecosystem-Based Approach to Fisheries Management associated with the EU Marine Strategy Framework Directive.

The research focus of this project is to identify more optimal harvest strategies and potential reallocation of fishing efforts among operators, fishing techniques, and spatial areas. This will involve using finely resolved vessel position data for selected vessels and obtaining quantitative (e.g. edible protein per litre used) and qualitative insights, for example, through interviews, on how the skippers operate the fisheries.

The goal is to optimize the economic and ecological outcomes while considering constraints such as costs, physical limitations, regulatory barriers, and the current management context. The project will ultimately integrate an “Evaluation and Guidance Toolbox for Low-Carbon and Low-Impact Fishing Techniques and Practices”. This evaluation framework (toolbox) will form the basis for exploring the feasibility of solutions and provide feedback and advice on choosing changed techniques and/or practices to potentially be applied by the fisheries sector.

Responsibilities and qualifications
We are looking for a candidate with strong social as well as quantitative and analytical skills, preferably with a background in fisheries management. Youwill play a pivotal role in this project and have a key role in developing and applying (e.g., statistical and agent-based) models to forecast the impact of fishing choices on the decarbonisation performance with effects on the economy of fishing fleets and the ecology of exploited ecosystems. As a postdoctoral researcher, you will be integral to a larger interdisciplinary research project, working with fisheries experts and ecosystem modellers from DTU Aqua. One of the project's goals is to expand/reuse an agent-based model that can assess the consequences of various scenarios for the future of Danish fisheries under spatial constraints, such as the presence of Offshore windmill farms in the Baltic Sea and the North Sea, in pursuit of decarbonisation objectives. We will evaluate concrete spatial management and planning to address requests from the Danish authorities and other stakeholders.

In the assessment of candidates, particular consideration will be given to:

• Previous experience in marine and fisheries research and population, fisheries and ecosystem dynamics;
• Proven experience and strong skills in modelling and quantitative and statistical analyses;
• Proficiency in at least one programming languages among R, C++, or Python, and proficient in using a GIS platform;
• Knowledge of (fisheries) economics and decarbonisation issues;
• Keen interest in desk-only research within the field of marine and aquatic sciences.
• Demonstrated research abilities as shown by publications in scientific journals,
• Genuine interest in stakeholder engagement,
• The ability to communicate at all levels in English.

As a formal qualification, you must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent) in natural science involving analysis of large data sets.

We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.

Salary and terms of employment
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union.

The period of employment is 1.5 years, starting as soon as possible. The position is a full-time position.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here.
Further information
Further information may be obtained from Senior Scientist Francois Bastardie ([email protected]).

You can read more about DTU Aqua at www.aqua.dtu.dk

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark.

Application procedure
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 14 October 2024 (23:59 Danish time).

Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:

• Application (cover letter)
• CV
• Academic Diplomas (MSc/PhD – in English)
• List of publications
• 1 page description of how you see the research question could be addressed

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion, or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.

DTU Aqua – National Institute of Aquatic Resources – works for well-functioning oceans, rivers, and lakes where biodiversity can thrive. Our research, advisory service, and education contribute to the development of a sustainable blue bioeconomy, robust aquatic ecosystems, and reduced effects of climate change. We have a large national and international network and cooperate with research partners, public authorities, industry, and NGOs. We have state-of-the-art research facilities and Denmark’s only ocean- and arctic-going research vessel. The Institute has 360 employees, one-half being scientific staff, including 45 PhD students. More than 35 nationalities are represented at the Institute, and we support an equal gender distribution. We are located in Lyngby, Hirtshals, Nykøbing Mors, and Silkeborg and have regular activities in Greenland. Learn more on aqua.dtu.dk

Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear mission to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That mission lives on today. DTU has 13,500 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.

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