Research Associate in Modelling Photosynthesis and Biogenic Volatile Organic Compounds Emissions
Publicerad 2025-03-21
Within the European HORIZON program “CONCERTO” (improved CarbOn cycle represeNtation through multi-sCale models and Earth obseRvation for Terrestrial ecOstyems), you will develop a unifying model for photosynthesis and BVOC emissions within the P model (). This modelling framework will account for pigments dynamic involved in light absorption and non-photochemical quenching (NPQ). This modelling work aims to prepare for data exploitation of the upcoming FLEX mission through exploiting Sentinel-5P/ Tropomi HCHO indicative of BVOC emissions.
You will:
Develop and test a new implementation of the P model, accounting for BVOC emission as well as photosynthetic pigments dynamic. This new version will incorporate the most recent findings on the adaptive nature of Gross Primary Production (GPP) responses to temperature and soil moisture . new representations of how the intrinsic quantum efficiency of light-limited photosynthesis responds to temperature and soil moisture; how vegetation structure affects light limitation and photosynthesis response; how NPQ fluctuates with environmental changes. Assess the modelled carbon assimilation using flux towers data in the LEMONTREE flux data kit. ()Assess modelled emissions. Model results will be compared to site-level observations, MEGAN3 results, and top-down estimates provided by Royal Belgian Institute for Space Aeronomy within the CONCERTO project.Assess the impact of extreme events on carbon cycling and recovery from extreme events, including heatwaves, droughts and wildfires. Hold, or near completion of, a PhD in in global environmental modelling/ satellite data a closely related discipline or equivalent research, industrial or commercial experienceExperience in Earth system modellingExperience in dealing with satellite dataKnowledge in plant physiology The opportunity to be part of a stimulating team (Professor Colin Prentice’s group ) that aims to build the next generation of climate modelsThe opportunity to be part of the CONCERTO project, an innovative scientific collaborative framework. The consortium includes European experts and institutions active in the exploitation of novel Earth Observation (EO) data, the innovation of EO driven process models, data assimilation and machine learning techniques.The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to continue science for humanity.Grow your career: Gain access to Imperial’s sector-leading as well as opportunities for promotion and progressionSector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 39 days off a year and generous pension schemes).
