Agent-Based Modelling Specialist – Hen Harrier Energetics
Employer: MKO Research
Location: Remote-Anywhere, Ireland
Contract: 12-month fixed-term
Salary: EUR 45,900 – 49,500
Project Overview
MKO Research is leading the RE:HARRIER Project, a four-year, SEAI-funded Research, Development, and Demonstration initiative. The project investigates how hen harriers (Circus cyaneus) use Irish upland landscapes and how these patterns can inform the sustainable planning of wind energy developments. Given the species’ conservation status and sensitivity to habitat change, this work plays a critical role in spatial planning and raptor conservation in Ireland.
Position Summary
We are seeking a motivated and independent contractor to lead the development of an agent-based model (ABM) of hen harrier energetics and foraging ranges under varying habitat and prey conditions. The model will estimate the spatial requirements of hen harriers across different upland environments and provide key evidence to inform conservation and planning decisions.
The successful candidate will collaborate with the RE:HARRIER lead ecologist/project collaborators to shape model structure, inputs, and study focus during the early phase of the contract. Thereafter, the role will involve independently managing the design, implementation, and delivery of the ABM. Spatial and ecological datasets (including habitat maps, prey availability estimates, and movement data) will be provided.
This role is suited to a PhD level (or higher) researcher or an experienced ecological modeller, whether academic or freelance, with a demonstrated track record in agent-based modelling.
Key Responsibilities
* Develop, implement, and refine agent-based models of hen harrier energetics and foraging behaviour
* Integrate habitat, prey, and landscape data provided by the RE:HARRIER team
* Lead or contribute to scientific manuscripts for submission to peer‑reviewed journals
* Provide regular progress updates and participate in periodic project meetings
* Ensure all deliverables are completed by contract end
Qualifications
* PhD-level (or higher) experience in agent-based or individual-based modelling
* Proficiency with NetLogo or comparable platforms for ABM development
* Strong analytical skills with large ecological datasets
* Demonstrated publication record in peer‑reviewed journals
* Excellent organisational and time‑management skills
* Strong communication and reporting ability
* Familiarity with raptor ecology, upland habitats, or the ecological impacts of renewable energy
* Experience in project coordination or research management
* Experience preparing or contributing to research funding proposals
* A documented, runnable ABM (e.g. built in NetLogo or similar)
* Drafted methods and results sections suitable for submission to a peer‑reviewed publication
* All deliverables must be completed within the 12‑month contract period. Key milestones will be agreed upon at the outset.
How to Apply
Please submit a CV and a brief cover letter (max 1 page) outlining your relevant experience relating to the job criteria, past ABM projects, and/or research papers, including your specific role and the questions or systems modelled, along with your availability and expected monthly rate to https://mkoireland.ie/careers/current-vacancies/.
This is a contract for services, not an employment position. The successful candidate will be responsible for their own taxes, insurance, and working arrangements.
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