Computational Modeling Specialist

Job Description

JOB BRIEF

The Computational Modeling Specialist will be responsible for all computational modelling aspects of the model(s) development project. The Specialist will be interacting on a continuous basis with USIP program directors and programmatic staff based in Washington DC and field office. The Specialist will also benefit from the guidance of an advisory group of senior experts in the field of complexity. A core component of the Specialist’s work will consist of translating information stemming from a peacebuilding question (conflict transformation, governance, violent extremism, peace processes, nonviolent action) into computational models. The Specialist will primarily work with USIP’s Director for Governance, Justice and Security and other directors in USIP’s Applied Conflict Transformation Center.

The Specialist should be prepared to begin work by February 2019.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop all components of an Agent Based Model(s) for the U.S. Institute of Peace to support a research project. The model(s) development work shall include all preparatory development work as well as post-model development analysis and publication work
• Oversee and coordinate work performed by research assistant(s) in support of the model(s) development work led by the Specialist. Organize and manage processes to seek regular input from advisory experts and USIP staff involved in the project and integrate subject matter expertise into the model(s)
• Support all components of analytical work, publication and dissemination of results emerging from the U.S. Institute of Peace agent-based model(s) development and simulations. Such support shall include publication of articles, reports, blogs, podcasts as well as participation in events identified by USIP
• Contribute to the United States Institute of Peace’s work promoting the use of complex systems thinking and computational modelling. Such contributions shall include the provision of technical guidance to a team of writers working on a book on complexity and peacebuilding at USIP.

Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Completing or completed PhD degree and/or postdoctoral work in relevant field required. Familiarity with conflict transformation, peacebuilding, governance, security, violent extremism, peace processes, nonviolent action dynamics an asset.
• Extensive skills and experience with computational modelling, including experience with developing all components of complex computational models as well as extensive experience with analyzing and disseminating results from modelling experimentation processes.
• Strong command of Python, Matlab, or R, with additional programming skills.
• Fluency in English required. Fluency in French or Arabic an asset.
• Excellent research and writing ability; strong organizational and analytical skills.
• Strong ability to work both independently and collegially.
• Demonstrated ability to work with diverse teams, to obtain results under pressure while contributing to supportive working environment, and to maintain and to simultaneously oversee many substantive and operational initiatives.
• SOW contractor position is open to non – U.S. citizens.
• One year contract with possible extension depending on availability of funds

All USIP contract and employee positions are contingent upon the favorable completion of a suitability background investigation.

Compensation is commensurate with qualifications and experience.

HOW TO APPLY
To be considered for this position, please submit a complete application package consisting of:
1. Completed employment application including titles, dates of hire and salary history.
2. Cover letter
3. Resume

For questions about this position please email recruitment@usip.org. Do not send resumes or attachments to this email address.

Only those applicants that are selected for further discussions will be contacted.

No Phone Calls. Interviews will be scheduled by appointment only.

USIP is an equal opportunity employer. It is the policy and practice of USIP to offer equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees without regard to race, color, age, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information, HIV/AIDS status, political affiliations or belief, pregnancy, or any other characteristic protected by law.

About the Organization

If you have a passion for making the world a better place and want to have a front row seat to the world stage, USIP is the place for you.

We are a nonpartisan institute chartered by Congress to tackle the world’s toughest problems. Working in conflict zones around the world, our staff advise and support the military, government officials and community leaders – to promote knowledge and practices that prevent, mitigate and resolve violent conflict. To learn more about USIP programs and job openings go to https://www.usip.org/about/careers. The Institute is headquartered in Washington DC with staff working in 22 different countries, at any given time up to 20% of the staff could be deployed working in the field.