Exciting Research Opportunity: Tropical American Forest Dynamics at the University of Leeds

Are you an ambitious researcher passionate about forest ecology, climate change, and statistical modeling? The University of Leeds is offering a Research Fellow position in Tropical American Forest Dynamics, working on the groundbreaking AMSINK – The End of the Amazon Carbon Sink? project.

About the Role

This position, funded by the UK Natural Environment Research Council, focuses on analyzing forest dynamics—including turnover, productivity, and change metrics—to assess how tropical forests in South America respond to climate change. The research involves collaboration with leading ecological networks such as RAINFOR, PPBio, and others.

Why This Project Matters

🌿 Tropical forests play a crucial role in carbon storage and regulating global climate. 📊 The AMSINK project aims to understand how, where, and why the dynamics of these forests change over time. 🌍 Researchers will work with colleagues across the UK, South America, and globally, supported by the data management team.

Key Responsibilities

✔️ Conduct statistical analyses on forest dynamics across time and space. ✔️ Utilize advanced R programming for data modeling and reporting. ✔️ Collaborate with international researchers, labs, and ecological networks. ✔️ Help improve AMR surveillance methodologies in tropical forest ecology.

Who Should Apply?

🔹 Education Requirement:

  • PhD in Ecology, Environmental Science, Statistics, or a related discipline. 🔹 Required Experience:

  • Strong statistical modeling skills (R programming).

  • Expertise in mixed effects models, Bayesian approaches, and spatial statistics.

  • Experience handling large ecological datasets for environmental comparisons. 🔹 Preferred Skills:

  • Field experience in tropical forest ecology (not mandatory).

  • Ability to communicate in Latin American languages is an advantage.

Job Details

📍 Location: Leeds, UK (Hybrid possible) ⏳ Contract: Full-time, Fixed-Term (1 August - 30 September 2025, potential extension) 💰 Salary: £39,355 - £46,735 per annum

Benefits at University of Leeds

✅ Generous pension scheme (14.5% university contribution) ✅ Health & wellbeing perks (discounted gym, sauna, climbing wall, and sports facilities) ✅ 42 days holiday per year ✅ Professional development courses ✅ Childcare & travel schemes

Commitment to Diversity

The University of Leeds is dedicated to workforce diversity and encourages applications from all backgrounds, including Black, Asian, or Minority Ethnic groups, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and those living with disabilities.

Application Deadline

📅 Apply before: 14th July 2025

How to Apply?

📩 For inquiries, contact Professor Oliver Phillips at o.phillips@leeds.ac.uk 📑 Visa sponsorship may be available via the Skilled Worker or Global Talent visa routes. Check eligibility at .

If you’re passionate about ecology, forests, and climate research, this role offers the opportunity to work alongside global experts on one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. 🚀