Modelling opinion dynamics in relation to sea level change

Background:
Conduct research within the DFG (German Science Foundation) funded project SEATRAC (https://www.spp-sealevel.de/index.php?id=4243). The project is part of the interdisciplinary DFG Priority Programme Regional Sea Level Change and Society (https://www.spp-sealevel.de/index.php?id=3130).

Objectives:
The PhD candidate will develop an Agent-Based Model of opinion dynamics. The model will integrate the relevant information gained with surveys and economic experiments (from a companion PhD student in experimental economics) into a broader and more flexible simulative context. Numerical experiments will allow PhD candidate to explore a number of cognitive bias distribution hypotheses and their effects in the context of multiple sea level change scenarios. By combining empirical data into the model, you will investigate the behavioural factors that limit peoples’ abilities to perceive and react to the threats posed by sea level rise in Northern Germany and Indonesia.

Requirements:
1) Qualifications in theoretical and computational oriented disciplines (mathematics, physics, theoretical ecology, climate sciences, etc.), ideally with a focus on natural resources.
2) A strong background in mathematical modelling, advanced python programming skills, and an excellent spoken and written English are mandatory.
3) Proven interest for topics related to human adaptive behaviour in the context of environmental change.
4) Willingness to travel to Northern Germany and Indonesia to learn about and assist the companion PhD with behavioural experiments.