Agent-Based Modelling Specialist – Hen Harrier Energetics

Work set-up: 
Full Remote
Contract: 
Fixed term
Work from: 
United Kingdom, Ireland

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MKO
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Job description

About us
MKO is Ireland’s largest Planning and Environmental consultancy. 
 
Our team of 200+ experienced professionals work across the planning, environmental, ecology and related fields.
We deliver challenging and complex projects for our clients and have an unrivalled track record of success. We add real value to our client’s projects through our multi-disciplinary expertise and a broad range of nationwide experience.
 
Our success and growth rests entirely on the knowledge, skills, ambition and integrity of our people, and we value these qualities most highly. We are forward-thinking and work with a can-do attitude, which nurtures people, ideas and opportunities to help maximise potential.
 
Through our work, we aim to leave a legacy we can all be proud of.
Job Description
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.

This is a unique opportunity to lead the development of a critical tool that will directly inform sustainable planning for wind energy projects and contribute to the protection of a sensitive raptor species. This 12-month fixed-term fully remote contract is perfect for an independent and motivated individual with a passion for ecological research. 
 
What you’ll bring to MKO Research
You will be at the forefront of designing, building, and delivering an Agent-Based Model (ABM) focused on hen harrier energetics and foraging behaviour under varying habitat and prey conditions. Your work will be crucial in estimating the spatial requirements of hen harriers across varied landscapes and upland environments, providing key evidence to inform conservation and planning decisions. 
 
You will collaborate with RE:HARRIER lead ecologists and project partners to shape the model's core structure, inputs and study focus during the early phase of the contract. After that, you will be independently managing all aspects of the model's design, implementation, and delivery. We will provide all necessary ecological and spatial datasets (including habitat maps, prey availability estimates, and movement data), allowing you to focus on the modelling itself.
 
Your expertise will be vital in translating the model’s findings into a tangible scientific output. You will lead or contribute to the drafting of scientific manuscripts, ensuring the project's methods and results are prepared for submission to a peer-reviewed publication. Your work will not only contribute to the project but also to the wider scientific community.
 
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 ABM.
 
Deliverables
  • 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.
 
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.
 
 
What we’re looking for in you
We're looking for an experienced ecological modeller with a strategic mindset and a proven track record. Your expertise in agent-based modelling and your ability to work independently will be key to your success in this pivotal role.
 
What we require:
  • 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.
 
Ideally, you will also possess:
  • 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.
 
How to apply
Lead a significant project that directly influences environmental policy and conservation. Your work will have a tangible impact on the future of hen harrier populations and the development of sustainable energy in Ireland.
 
We offer a competitive contract rate and the flexibility of working remotely, recognising the significant expertise and contribution you will make. 
 
Ready to take on this challenge? 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.

Candidates interested in the available position should apply with an up-to-date curriculum vitae and cover letter.
 
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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Required profile

Experience

Spoken language(s):
English
Check out the description to know which languages are mandatory.

Hard Skills

Scientific WritingAgent-Based ModelEnvironmental Data AnalysisNetLogoClinical Research CoordinationProject ManagementHabitat ImprovementEcologyResearch Funding

Other Skills

  • Organizational Skills
  • Time Management
  • Communication
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