UNU-EHS – RESEARCHER SCHOLARSHIP 2010 – GERMANY
13 PhD Researcher Scholarships 2010 in United Nations University-Institute for Environment and Human Security (UNU-EHS) of Germany
About UNU-EHS:
UNU-EHS, established in December 2003, is part of the United Nations University (UNU) system, a worldwide network of Research and Training Institutes. Its mission is to advance human security through knowledge-based approaches to reducing vulnerability and environmental risks. The Institute explores problems and promotes solutions related to the environmental dimensions of human security, a concept which puts the individual, social groups and their livelihoods at the centre of debate, analysis and policy.
Detail:
The UNITED NATIONS UNIVERSITY Institute for Environment and Human Security (UNUEHS) in Bonn has been conceived and created to assess the vulnerability and coping capacity of societies facing natural and human-induced hazards in a changing environment. Within the scope of this mandate, UNU-EHS is engaged in policy relevant research and capacity building. For more information about UNU-EHS.
Objective:
The objective of this research study is to obtain a better understanding of the sediment dynamics in the Mekong basin as the main source of the sediment and thus nutrient input into the Mekong Delta. This includes a combination of a data based approach via advanced statistical analysis of existing time series with hydrological modelling of the Mekong Basin. Taking possible climate change impacts into account this should yield quantitative
assessments of the recent and future sediment input and the identification of sediment source regions in the basin.
Specific requirements:
· Relevant MA degree in hydrology, geoecology or relevant disciplines;
· Experience with hydrological modelling including sediment dynamics;
· Sound knowledge in advanced statistical data analysis;
· Strong programming skills (preferably Fortran);
· Experience with the SWAT hydrological model are advantageous.
Eligibility:
Potential candidates for all positions hosted by ZEF are asked to write a 1-2 page essay about their motivation to join the project and their first ideas about the PhD topic. All candidates should be ready to participate in ZEF’s PhD programme and to go to Vietnam on field work for a consecutive 8-10 months.
General requirements for all positions:
In addition to the specific requirements listed above, all positions require the following:
· Fluency in oral and written English is compulsory;
· Knowledge of German and/or Vietnamese would be an asset;
· Ability to work independently and within a team;
· Willingness to travel between Vietnam and Germany and conduct extended field work in Vietnam and/or the Mekong Delta;
· Strong analytical skills;
· Experience with data collection, questionnaire development and sound interviewing skills is an advantage;
· Ability to work in an international and multi-ethnic environment;
· Intercultural experiences and knowledge about the South East Asian culture, especially Vietnam, would be an asset;
· Past field work experience in Vietnam is an advantage
Application Procedure:
Interested applicants should submit their applications electronically through the online application portal (https://www.ehs.unu.edu/article/wisdom-phd) indicating the respective
position number. The online application portal will be open from 7th to 30th September 2010. Please upload with your application the following:
· a motivation letter setting out how the qualifications and experience match the requirements of the position;
· a curriculum vitae with a completed and signed UNU Personal History form
downloadable from UNU’s website at www.unu.edu/employment. Please avoid using similar forms provided by other United Nations organizations;
· a recent scientific writing sample of max. 20 pages;
· a full contact information of three references.
Only short-listed candidates will be contacted; late and unsuccessful applications can neither be acknowledged nor returned. For questions regarding the application process, please contact Ms. Beatrice O’Reilly, Personnel Administration Manager (oreilly@vie.unu.edu).
Stipend:
The successful candidates will receive a monthly stipend of 1,100 EUR which is German income tax-exempted.
Application Deadline: 30September2010
Contact:
UNU-EHS
UN Campus
Hermann-Ehlers-Str. 10
53113 Bonn, Germany
Tel.: + 49-228-815-0200
Fax: + 49-228-815-0299
e-mail: info@ehs.unu.edu
