Data-smart ecosystem models

We are in the midst of an environmental data revolution. Advances in sensing technologies, open data, and data mining are rapidly increasing the volume and diversity of data we have on our natural world. How best to make use of this data is a growing challenge. This studentship will explore the potential for creating a new generation of data-smart terrestrial ecosystem models that are primed to exploit this environmental data revolution. You will explore how advances in data science, such as machine learning, can be combined with more traditional process-based ecosystem modelling approaches to provide new insights into ecosystem processes and improve our abilities to predict and sustainably manage their future.

This is an exciting opportunity to work at the interface between data science and environmental sciences and help mobilise data science in the pursuit of a sustainable world. In this studentship, you will:
• Gain a highly valuable skillset in data science and environmental modelling.
• Be supported by a supervisory team who offer international leadership in data science and plant-soil ecosystem modelling, and who both have deep experience of cross-disciplinary approaches to environmental challenges.
• Join a diverse community of data scientists and environmental scientists at Lancaster University’s Environment Centre and Data Science Institute.

We are looking for an enthusiastic student who is keen to explore the cutting-edge of data science in this important application area. Applicants should hold a minimum of a UK Honours Degree at 2:1 level or equivalent in relevant subjects such as (but not limited to) Computer Science, Data Science, Statistics, Natural Sciences, Geography, or Environmental Sciences. We are particularly interested in applications from students who share our excitement about this potentially impactful research. The project will best suit a student with a strong quantitative background and experience or enthusiasm for gaining skills in modern programming techniques. Note that we do not expect to find a student with all the skill sets required to undertake this exciting, cross-disciplinary project and hence additional training will be provided once the student is in place.

Download further information and the application process from https://lancaster.box.com/v/Data-smartecosystemmodels