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Position

Interdisciplinary Postdoctoral Scholar in Urban Ecosystem Modelling

Employer

University of Waterloo

Homepage: https://uwaterloo.ca/residential-development-impact-scorecard-environment/

Location

Waterloo, Canada

Sector

Academic

Type

Contract

Level

Entry level

Salary

CAD $45,000-$70,000 + benefits

Required education

PhD

Application deadline

Open until the position is filled

Posted

12 June 2026

Job Description

We seek a qualified Urban Ecosystem Modeller research scientist/post-doctoral scholar to join the RISE project at the University of Waterloo for a one-year term.

Full recruitment ad here.

This team member will be responsible for ensuring coordination across 5 sub-projects that are developing integrated models to understand, predict, and manage stormwater, terrestrial carbon, and wetland ecology in new residential developments. Our models treat stormwater, trees, and wetlands (natural and stormwater ponds) as an integrated system, modelling and analysing the interactions between these systems that influence stormwater retention on site, tree growth, and greenhouse gas exchanges and biodiversity in wetlands.

The Urban Ecosystem Modeller will identify, lead, and monitor best practices for model integration. The team member will also coordinate capstone project outreach and publication efforts.

Required Qualifications

Demonstrated expertise in interdisciplinary simulation modelling applied to urban carbon, stormwater, and/or wetlands. Demonstrated understanding and ability to apply best practices in simulation modelling, including model documentation, sensitivity analysis, and uncertainty analysis. A strong academic/training record commensurate with these required skills. Demonstrated excellence in academic publication, commensurate with career stage. Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and respectfully in diverse, interdisciplinary research settings. Demonstrated ability to follow directions and complete task in a timely manner. Demonstrated ability to work independently, while seeking feedback and guidance as needed. Demonstrated ability to lead publications and other outreach activities.

Desired Qualifications

Basic understanding of the role of natural and engineered green infrastructure to sequester carbon and manage stormwater runoff. Expertise in advanced statistical, simulation, and optimization methods. Basic training in urban design. Demonstrated ability to interact with various planning actors/stakeholders, including professional planners and developers. Understanding of site plan development, ideally in an Ontario context.

We have flexibility with respect to the type of hire for this position. This position is available as a research scientist or post-doctoral position. For research scientist and post-doctoral positions, appointment term will be 1 year (with a possibility that the term could be extended to two years through a MITACS application). Salary range is $45,000-$70,000, depending on qualifications and experience. For post-doctoral scholars, additional information including benefits is available at https://uwaterloo.ca/graduate-studies-postdoctoral-affairs/welcome-postdoctoral-affairs.

How to apply

Apply by June 30, 2026 for full consideration. To apply:

Send an e-mail to Harriet Bigas (harriet.bigas at uwaterloo.ca) and Michael Drescher (mdrescher at uwaterloo.ca) with the heading “RISE Urban Ecosystem Modeller application,” followed by your name. Include a short (max. 3-page, 12-point font) letter explaining your interest in and preparedness for this position, including your interest in the RISE project (see below for summary). Evidence of preparedness can include previous coursework, work experience, theses, publications, and experience working in interdisciplinary research groups and with professional and stakeholders. In an optional additional half page, please also highlight if desired any relevant lived experience or differential challenges you have faced relevant to your studies and/or this position. Include a recent CV, an unofficial transcript, the names and contact information for 3 references, and 1-3 research samples, preferably peer-reviewed publications. We will contact you for an interview. When the position is filled, we will notify all unsuccessful applicants. We appreciate the time and effort that you might take to apply.

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