Forest Dynamics Modelling Research Scientist

Do you have experience researching the effects of climate change on forested ecosystem dynamics, disturbance ecology, vegetation modelling, or wood product life-cycle assessments? If so, bring your unique blend of skills to this important role within the Ministry of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry.

What can I expect to do in this role?

In this role, you will:

• conduct research in the development of quantitative, statistical and process models to understand the impacts and adaptation of ecosystems to pressures such as climate change and forest disturbance
• assemble, manage, manipulate, integrate, query and format large geospatial, environmental, climatic, edaphic, and biological data sets
• publish research results in scientific journals, technical reports, and other publications and present at scientific meetings, workshop, training courses, seminars, and other appropriate forums
• communicate research results and applications to managers, foresters, collaborators and other clients

Support one of four research projects, supported by lead research scientist(s):
(1) Using machine learning and structural equation modelling to elucidate drivers of boreal forest succession to inform the stand and site guide (11 months)
(2) Spatial modelling of wildfire, budworm and harvest to forecast boreal forest compositional dynamics to inform the landscape guide (6 months)
(3) Developing data-driven/machine learning models to synthesize spatiotemporal data and disentangle factors and processes driving boreal forest dynamics
(4) Developing life cycle inventory for wood products manufactured in Ontario for conducting carbon balance and climate effects assessment

How do I qualify?

Mandatory

• master's degree or Ph.D in forestry, ecology or related science, with specialization in forest management, forest growth and dynamics modelling

Technical expertise:

• knowledge and proven capacity to develop and use modelling applications in relation to fields of research such as forest dynamics, forest ecology and management, and forest growth and yield
• expertise in developing wood product life-cycle inventory and life-cycle assessment models
• expertise in research methods for the development of advanced quantitative, statistical, and process models related to impacts and adaptation of ecosystems to pressures such as climate change, forest management, fire, insects, wood product life-cycle inventories and assessments

Computer proficiency:

• experience and knowledge of computer programming techniques and languages (e.g., R, Python, Visual Basic, C++, MATLAB), data science to develop efficient workflows and develop, calibrate and adapt models of forest dynamics, disturbance, growth, development and succession under different climate and forest management scenarios
• advanced skills in statistical and mathematical methods and modelling techniques (e.g., machine learning, structural equation modelling) for modelling forest dynamics
• knowledge of database management (Access, SQL Server), spreadsheets, word processing, and graphics software to develop, acquire and maintain databases for specific projects/programs; to produce analyses of data and prepare reports on findings using a personal computer
• knowledge and skills in creating programs or algorithms to parse data, performing exploratory data analysis and identifying patterns/relationships and data visualization

Communication and interpersonal skills:

• ability to communicate effectively with staff from forest industry, other Ministries, other governments, and non-government organizations and co-ordinate activities to achieve a common goal
• proven experience in scientific writing and publication in order to write scientific papers and publish research results in scientific journals

Planning and organizational skills:

• skill in organization and planning to develop and implement programs of a complex nature and produce deliverables to a fixed timeline with minimum supervision

OPS Commitment to diversity, inclusion, accessibility, and anti- racism:

We are committed to build a workforce that reflects the communities we serve and to promote a diverse, anti-racist, inclusive, accessible, merit-based, respectful and equitable workplace.
We invite all interested individuals to apply and encourage applications from people with disabilities, Indigenous, Black, and racialized individuals, as well as people from a diversity of ethnic and cultural origins, sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions.
Visit theOPS Anti-Racism Policy and the OPS Diversity and Inclusion Blueprint pages to learn more about the OPS commitment to advance racial equity, accessibility, diversity, and inclusion in the public service.
We offer employment accommodation across the recruitment process and all aspects of employment consistent with the requirements of Ontario's Human Rights Code. Refer to the application instructions below if you require a disability-related accommodation.

Please be advised that the results of this competition may be used to form an eligibility list of qualified candidates to potentially fill future vacancies represented by the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU). In accordance with the Collective Agreement, eligibility lists are shared with OPSEU representatives. By applying to this competition, you are providing consent that your name may be shared with OPSEU representatives.

All external applicants (including former employees of the Ontario Public Service) applying to a competition in a ministry or Commission public body must disclose (either in the cover letter or resume) previous employment with the Ontario Public Service. Disclosure must include positions held, dates of employment and any active restrictions as applicable from being rehired by the Ontario Public Service. Active restrictions can include time and/or ministry-specific restrictions currently in force, and may preclude a former employee from being offered a position with the Ontario Public Service for a specific time period (e.g. one year), or from being offered a position with a specific ministry (either for a pre-determined time period or indefinitely). The circumstances around an employee's exit will be considered prior to an offer of employment.

Remember: The deadline to apply is Friday, April 22, 2022 11:59 pm EDT. Late applications will not be accepted.

We thank you for your interest. Only those selected for further screening or an interview will be contacted.