Special Consultants with Expertise in Data Science and Ecology

The Department of Ecoscience (ECOS), Aarhus University, are seeking highly skilled and motivated data scientists/ecologists to join our team as special consultants. The ideal candidates will have a solid background in the natural sciences, with a focus on ecology, combined with advanced technical expertise in data analysis and programming. The role involves supporting scientific projects as well as contributing to advisory work.

Expected start date and duration of employment
This is a permanent position planned to start on December 1st 2024, or as soon as possible thereafter.

Job description
We are looking for candidates to help strengthen our applied data science capabilities and advisory work.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading and supporting data analysis in ecological research projects to ensure effective data handling, analysis, and interpretation.
• Applying advanced statistical techniques to interpret complex datasets and uncover important ecological patterns, alongside conducting spatial analyses to support these studies.
• Utilizing drone and sensor technologies, such as LiDAR, multispectral, and thermal imaging, to collect and process data for ecological modeling and spatial analysis.
• Collaborating with research teams to ensure the efficient use of high-performance computing (HPC) clusters for data-intensive tasks and managing databases for smooth access to critical information.
• Overseeing version control and facilitating collaborative coding using Git or similar platforms, while also setting up automated workflows to streamline data processing and analysis for large-scale data management..

Your profile

The ideal candidates will possess the following qualifications:

• A PhD in natural sciences (preferably in ecology, data science, or a closely related field).
• Extensive experience with data science tools and methodologies.
• Previous experience in applied ecological research and advisory work.
• Strong programming skills in languages such as R and Python.
• Proficiency in open-source statistical analysis, including complex ecological data.
• Experience with GIS software and modeling for spatial data analysis.
• Familiarity with machine learning algorithms and the adaptation of AI methodologies for ecological data will be a plus.
• Expertise with drone technology and sensor techniques for ecological data collection and analysis.
• Competence with databases like PostgreSQL and DuckDB, and experience managing large datasets.
• Proficiency with Git for version control and collaborative code development.
• Familiarity with setting up workflows and utilizing computer clusters for high-performance computing tasks.

Who we are
The Department of Ecoscience is engaged in research program­mes and advisory work covering the major biological subdisciplines. We conduct world-class research in the areas of aquatic biology and ecology, arctic environment and ecosystems, biodiversity and conservation biology. The Department currently employs approximately 250 academic and technical staff, as well as many PhD students.

The Special Consultant will be part of a dynamic, internationally engaged scientific environment, working in either the Section for Wildlife Ecology or the Section for Biodiversity, depending on the chosen candidate's skill set.

What we offer
The Department offers a vibrant and informal research environment with longstanding traditions for collaboration with elite international university partners and with the Danish Ministry of the Environment.

The working environment at the Department is based on teamwork and close working relations. English is widely spoken and we welcome applicants from abroad. The Department has a strong work-life balance policy and seeks a good gender and age balance. Read more about the services available when relocating to Aarhus University at www.au.dk/work.

Place of work and area of employment
The place of work is C.F. Møllers Allé 8, Aarhus and the area of employment is Aarhus University with related departments.

Contact information
For further information, please contact:
Head of Section for Biodiversity Beate Strandberg +45 30183151, [email protected] or
Head of Section for Wildlife Ecology Ole Roland Therkildsen, +45 40203227, [email protected]

Formalities and salary range
Salary and terms as agreed between the Danish Ministry of Taxation and the Confederation of Professional Unions.

Aarhus University’s ambition is to be an attractive and inspiring workplace for all and to foster a culture in which each individual has opportunities to thrive, achieve and develop. We view equality and diversity as assets, and we welcome all applicants.

The application must be submitted via Aarhus University’s recruitment system, which can be accessed under the job advertisement on Aarhus University's website.

Aarhus University
Aarhus University is an academically diverse and research-intensive university with a strong commitment to high-quality research and education and the development of society nationally and globally. The university offers an inspiring research and teaching environment to its 38,000 students (FTEs) and 8,300 employees, and has an annual revenues of EUR 935 million. Learn more at www.international.au.dk/

Department: Biodiversitet/Biodiversity and Conservation

Deadline: 16 October 2024

Location: Aarhus C C.F. Møllers Allé 8