Researcher in Agent-based Modelling of Wetland Restoration in Sweden

Stockholm Resilience Centre (SRC) explores how people and nature can live and develop on a planet under pressure. The Centre is a collaboration between Stockholm University and the Beijer Institute of Ecological Economics at the Royal Swedish Academy Sciences. We bring people together from around the world to research, study and collaborate, for a thriving and resilient biosphere that enables well-being for all.

For more information about us, please visit: Stockholm Resilience Centre (SRC)

Project description

The position will be part of the project “Comet – Novel methodologies for analyzing complex causality in human-environment systems” funded by the Marianne and Marcus Wallenberg Foundation. The aim of the project is to develop and test multi-and mixed method approaches to analyze the causes of and possible solutions to acute sustainability problems. In particular, the project aims to develop methodologies for studying features of complex causality, such as path-dependency and cross-scale dynamics, as well as social-ecological interdependencies. These methodologies are explored through application to case studies of water governance in Sweden and Spain.

Main responsibilities

One of the multi-methods combinations in the project is the combination of quantitative (GIS-based analysis) and qualitative research (interviews, qualitative comparative analysis) with agent-based modelling in order to study the adoption of wetland restoration measures in Swedish agricultural landscapes. The researcher will be responsible for developing an agent-based model of wetland restoration that builds on the empirical research and can be used to explore possible explanations of patterns of adoption found across three regions in Southern Sweden. The development and analysis of the model will take place in close cooperation with empirical researchers that have studied this particular case. 

The researcher will also be part of the Comet project team and contribute to a process of reflecting on the gains and possible pitfalls and challenges of combining the different methods. 

Qualification requirements

Researchers are appointed primarily for purposes of research and must hold a Swedish doctoral degree or an equivalent degree from another country.

Assessment criteria

In the appointment process, special attention will be given to research skills. Special attention will also be given to:

• Demonstrated expertise in agent-based modeling; knowledge of social-ecological modelling and modelling human decision making
• Background in ecological or social-ecological modelling, sustainability science or other relevant fields;
• Programming and data analysis skills relevant for the design and analysis of agent-based models of social-ecological systems
• Ability to work both collaboratively in teams and to conduct independent research in interdisciplinary research settings
• Willingness to engage with qualitative data in collaboration with case study experts throughout the whole modelling cycle
• Analytical ability as demonstrated by scientific reports, research articles, or thesis project relevant to the position
• Excellent written and spoken English skills.

About the employment

The position involves full-time employment for 12 months. Start date 2026-03-01 or as per agreement.

We offer

With us, you will experience the dynamic interaction between higher education and research that makes Stockholm University an exciting and creative environment. You will work in an international environment and get favourable conditions. The university is located in the National City Park with good transport links to the city.

Stockholm University strives to be a workplace free from discrimination and with equal opportunities for all.

SRC offers a diverse, creative, collaborative and stimulating research environment with many possibilities for scientific and personal development. The candidate will be part of the Comet team and the seslink group (www.seslink.org), and one or several of SRC’s research themes that best align with their interests. 

Contact

Further information about the position can be obtained from Professor Maja Schlüter, phone: +46 73 4604910, maja.schlueter@su.se.

Application

Apply for the position at Stockholm University's recruitment system. Attach a personal letter and CV as well as the attachments requested in the application form. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the application is complete in accordance with the instructions in the job advertisement, and that it is submitted before the deadline.

The instructions for applicants are available at: How to apply for a position.