Research Scientist in Climate Modelling

The International Society for Industrial Ecology seeks a Research Scientist for Climate Modelling in Sydney, Australia. The role involves developing a Computable General Equilibrium model for degrowth applications, addressing investment variables related to declining GDP. The PhD student will evaluate scenario outcomes, adjust model parameters, and contribute to scientific publications. This position is full-time and part of the Sustainability Assessment Program.
Our team at the Sustainability Assessment Program is looking for a talented researcher to work on a project focused on modelling degrowth futures to meet ambitious climate targets. We are part of the Industrial Ecology Virtual Laboratory, which aims to support governments and industry in improving their decision making with an integrated assessment framework that combines economic, environmental and social dimensions.

The PhD student will enable IELab's Computable General Equilibrium (CGE) model for degrowth applications and port it into the MESSAGEix Integrated Assessment Model. This involves resolving the shortcomings of these CGE models in handling negative values for investment variables that result from declining GDP trajectories. The student will reinterpret negative investment as stranded assets and insert new and concrete technology descriptions of those assets that remain operational.

This project will be the first to build modelling capability and infrastructure to simulate degrowth pathways for Australia, including key degrowth policy feedbacks and dynamics. The PhD student will participate in evaluating scenario outcomes quantitatively, including reconfiguration of model parameters and routines according to stakeholder feedback, as well as writing scientific publications and reports.