Division/School School of Earth Sciences
Contract type Open Ended
Working pattern Full time
Salary Grade I £33,199 - £37,345 per annum. Grade J £37,345 - £42,036 per annum
Closing date for applications 28-Mar-2019

The Research Associate position will be based in the Schools of Earth Sciences and Mathematics at University of Bristol and will conduct fundamental research to underpin the application of predictive models to lahar hazard and risk. This will include: (i) development of shallow layer models appropriate to lahars with spatially-varying substrate properties, particularly erosion, and adaptive numerics to allow computation of lahar properties over variable spatial resolution; (ii) analysis of lahar impacts on built structures to identify damage mechanisms and estimate impacts, particularly the effects of transient wave-like impacts at lahar fronts; (iii) development of predictive models for lahar initiation from rainfall, using an existing hydrological model framework (Dynamic Topmodel) calibrated with catchment data for Mayon and Pinatubo and applied to future climate projections for the Philippines; (iv) integration of research outcomes into a coherent framework for estimating losses from lahar impacts. Within the broader project, the RA will collaborate closely with PHIVOLCS partners for: interpretation of spatial data from field measurements to correlate substrate erosion with land-use type and geological characteristics; model testing with field observations of lahars to develop robust calibrations; operational application of the model to lahar hazard at Mayon and Pinatubo; training operational partners in modelling for lahar hazard assessment, and engaging with end-users including risk management agencies and insurance industry partners.

The successful candidate will have a strong mathematical and physical science background with a PhD in mathematical modelling or relevant physical science, applied to environmental processes, to be proficient in the use and development of numerical strategies for integrating mathematical models, and experience of knowledge exchange with key stakeholders and end-users of research.

Desirable attributes include: experience of field campaigns including geological measurements or observation of natural hazards; excellent communication skills and evidence of the ability to work as part of a multi-disciplinary team.

The Schools of Earth Sciences and Mathematics and the University offer considerable opportunities for ongoing professional development and mentoring of Early Career Researchers. RAs are encouraged to co-supervise MSc and undergraduate research projects. The University of Bristol is committed to the Concordat to support the career development of researchers (see: http://www.bristol.ac.uk/staffdevelopment/academic/researchstaffhub/rese...).

For further enquiries regarding this position, please contact Dr Jeremy Phillips (j.c.phillips@bristol.ac.uk) or Prof Andrew Hogg (a.j.hogg@bristol.ac.uk).

The closing date for applications is 23:50 on Thursday 28th March 2019.

We appreciate and value difference, seeking to attract, develop and retain a diverse mix of talented people that will contribute to the overall success of Bristol and help maintain our position as one of the world’s leading universities.