Postdoctoral Researcher, societal constraints on water-land-energy management and governance - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

We are now looking for a

Postdoctoral Researcher, societal constraints on water-land-energy management and governance

to join us in Water, Energy and Environmental Engineering Research unit at the Faculty of Technology, University of Oulu.

The research unit research covers a broad area of expertise including hydrology, land and water resources, energy systems and environmental studies (www.oulu.fi/water). The unit is a multinational group working in a modern, up-to-date research environment. It has for several years been involved in research in Central Asia.

About the job

The Water, Energy and Environmental Engineering Research Unit is opening a 2-year position for a postdoctoral researcher to work on institutional analysis and development of scenarios for land, water and energy supply and demand in Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. The research will focus on social science methods and support the development of modelling and assessment methods regarding water, food and energy management in transboundary basins for improved benefit sharing. The case study area is transboundary basins of the Zarafshan and the Amu Darya.  

A successful candidate is expected to have a strong background in social sciences, preferably linked to water, land and energy management and governance in Central Asia. Understanding the conditions in the region and experience from the region, preferably Tajikistan and/or Uzbekistan, is a necessity. The work will look into institutional analysis and policy constraints using review of literature and policy documents as well as interviews of the key stakeholders at different levels (transboundary, national, regional, local).

After developing scenarios and analysing the output from models (by other project participants), a choice experiment will be made to reveal stakeholder preferences to the outlined scenarios (e.g., using Sawtooth for survey development and e.g., NLOGIT for analysis) in collaboration with our partner at the Chair of Environmental Sociology of the Martin Luther University of Halle-Wittenberg in Germany (Professor Ilkhom Soliev). The scenario results will be assessed using survey analysis.

The work is planned in Oulu, but it includes travels to Tajikistan and/or Uzbekistan, and collaborative work in Germany. The details of the stays in these locations will be planned and discussed with the selected candidate taking into account project needs.

What we offer?

• The support of an experienced and enthusiastic team of 80 people where you can share your expertise and grow as an expert.
• Wellness benefit ePassi covering sport, culture and well-being. Read more about other staff benefits here.
• Our Buddy Programme and Spouse Network support you and close-ones in settling into Oulu.
• Development and career options of the big organization.
• We have a HR Excellence in Research -quality label which is a recognition awarded by the European Commission for the development of researchers’ working conditions and careers. 
• Work that matters and a workplace that promotes flexibility and work-life balance. Read more about working with us.
• Finland is one of the most livable countries in the world, with a high quality of life, safety, excellent education system, and competitive economy. Read more about living in Oulu.

Who are you?

In order to succeed and enjoy the position, we expect from you: 

• Doctoral degree that has been awarded not more than ten years ago. We can consider applicants finalizing their doctoral degree in 2023 or early 2024;
• Demonstrated research background in social sciences or similar fields with focus on participatory approaches to develop future scenarios for land, water and energy management;
• Good networks in the region of study (Tajikistan and/or Uzbekistan, Central Asia);
• Knowledge to Central Asian aspects of water, land and energy management;
• Experience in methods used in social science for institutional analysis and survey development;
• Good command in both written and spoken English, good command of Russian. Knowledge of Uzbek and/or Tajik language is an advantage.
• Experience with stakeholder engagement;
• Good communication and teamwork skills;
• Proven ability and some record on scientific publishing.

Assessment of the applicants’ qualifications will be based on the following criteria acknowledging the content of the job: previous work experience, scientific publications, activity in the scientific community, national and international mobility, teaching and other academic merits.

Salary

The position is fixed-term for 2 years as of 01.01.2024 or as soon as possible thereafter.

The salary will be based on the levels 4-6 of the demand level chart for teaching and research staff of Finnish universities. In addition, a salary component based on personal work performance will be paid (maximum of 50 % of the job-specific component). Starting gross salary for postdoctoral researcher will be approx. 3500-4000 € per month (before taxes).  

A trial period of 6 months is applied in the position.

How to apply?

Interested? If yes, please apply by November 26th, 2023 at 23:59 (Finnish local time) through our recruitment system.

The application should be written in English and include the following:

1. A motivation letter summarizing applicant’s professional experience and expertise and describing why applicant is interested in this position. (max. 1 page)
2. Description of research interests and research plan for the two years. (max. 4 pages)
3. CV. A curriculum vitae (max. 4 pages) in accordance with the guidelines of the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity 
4. List of publications based on the guidelines of the Academy of Finland 
5. Contact information of two persons available for recommendation
6. Certificates/Diplomas

The eligible applicants fitting best in the profile expected for the position will be invited to an on-site or remote interview. All applicants will be notified during the selection process.

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, such as people of different ages, different genders and members of different language, cultural or minority groups. 

Contact Information

If you have any further questions, please contact Professor Bjørn Kløve, +358 40 594 4514, bjorn.klove@oulu.fi

Water, Energy and Environmental Engineering Research Unit
Faculty of Technology, University of Oulu.