The Department of Environmental Science at Aarhus University (AU), Denmark, invites applications for a position as full professor in environmental economics to strengthen and expand the research capacity and the research-based consultancy and teaching activities within the area of environmental social sciences. The position is to be filled by June 1st 2012 or as soon as possible thereafter, subject to negotiation.
The Department of Environmental Science
The Department of Environmental Science is a newly established and highly interdisciplinary department under the Faculty of Science and Technology at Aarhus University. The expertise ranges from physics, chemistry, microbiology, mathematics, and computer science, to social science, geography, economics and policy analysis. Both basic and applied research is conducted on some of the major challenges facing society, such as pollution and pollution control mechanisms, management of soil, water, air and biodiversity, protection of ecosystem services, climate change, and energy systems. Currently, about 130 staff and PhD-students are working at the department, however, this number is expected to increase to 160-170 within the next four to five years. Further information may be found at (the website is under construction).
The professor will be affiliated with the Section for Environmental Social Science, employing 20 staff. The section conducts interdisciplinary research at the crossroads of environmental economics, political science and sociology. The strategic aims of the section include bioeconomic modelling, the economics of ecosystem services, and the understanding of actions and actors in policy formulation and implementation.
Description of the position
The professor in environmental economics is expected to strengthen the research in environmental economics at the department and
- Take a leading role in the establishment and consolidation of a strong externally funded research program in environmental economics
- Develop and enhance interdisciplinary collaboration within the department and bridge with other faculties at AU, as well as with national and international universities and research groups
- Supervise graduate (Master and PhD level) students in their research projects
- Contribute to the teaching of graduate courses and to the development of a new education in environmental science
- Contribute to advisory activities of relevant regulatory authorities.
The department is particularly interested in strengthening the research activities in the area of ecosystem services assessments, valuation of non-market and market goods and services, cost-effectiveness and cost-minimisation analysis and modelling, as well as integrated modelling using econometric methods, optimisation models and welfare economic assessment methods.
Particular issues are costs and benefits of environmental policies to deal with air pollution, water and soil quality, toxic substances, solid waste, biodiversity, climate change (mitigation and adaptation), risk assessment and health.
Qualification requirements
The successful candidate has strong research background in environmental economics and a strong background in applying quantitative methods, including econometrics and modelling. Experience in applied and empirical work on spatial and integrated modelling, valuation and ecosystem service assessments is preferable. The qualifications must be documented by a considerable number of published contributions in international high-quality research outlets.
A demonstrated research leadership and ability to define and manage research projects is expected. A successful record of external research funding is also expected. Capability and interest in developing educational programmes within the Danish higher education system is preferable, as is familiarity with advisory activities of regulatory authorities.
The successful applicant must be involved in international and national networks of researchers and have an ability to provide inspiration and guidance for other researchers and colleagues at the department. The position requires a highly motivated scientist who is comfortable working in teams.
Foreign candidates are expected to learn Danish.
Work location
The place of work will be at AU in Roskilde, Denmark. The city of Roskilde (www.roskilde.dk) is located close to Copenhagen. The area provides immediate access to a wealth of cultural and recreational pursuits. Within about 5 years, the department is expected move to Copenhagen.
Filing of the application
Applicants are expected to add additional value to our existing research and educational programmes and propose viable plans for further developing them. Therefore, the application (written in English) should contain:
- A short (1 page) letter of intent
- A 2-3 page statement describing your research expertise and interests, including a description of how you envision you will be able to strengthen the research, consultancy and teaching at the department
- A detailed CV, including description of previous employments, history of grant support, and consultancy experience
- A teaching portfolio (may potentially be included in the detailed CV)
- A list of publications
- Documentation of academic degrees (university transcripts of diplomas)
- Reprints of your five most significant international peer-reviewed articles
- Names and e-mail addresses of three academic references that may be contacted
Please note that the evaluation of eligibility will be based solely on the submitted material.
Further information may be obtained by contacting Head of Department Dr. Niels Kroer (nk@dmu.dk; +45 871 58 701) or Head of Section Dr. Berit Hasler (bh@dmu.dk; +45 871 58 637).
Formalities and salary range
The Faculty of Science refers to the Ministerial Order on the Appointment of Academic Staff at Danish Universities under the Danish Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation.
Further information on qualification requirements and job content may be found in the Memorandum on Job Structure for Academic Staff at Danish Universities.
The application must be in English and include a curriculum vitae, degree certificate, a complete list of publications, a statement of future research plans and information about research activities, teaching portfolio and verified information on previous teaching experience (if any). The recommended level of detail.
Salary depends on seniority as agreed between the Danish Ministry of Finance and the Confederation of Professional Unions.
Deadline
All applications must be made online and received by 13 May 2012.
Please apply online
Aarhus University offers an inspiring education and research environment for 40,000 students and 11,000 members of staff, ensuring results of a high international standard. The budgeted turnover for 2012 amounts to DKK 6.2 billion. The university’s strategy and development contract are available at www.au.dk/en.
