Download CR2 N° 11 Paleoclimatologist, specialist in climate and

ENVIRONMENT AND RESOURCES DIVISION
POST TITLE
UNIT(S)
Paleoclimatologist, specialist in climate and environmental change
indicators in tropical zones
CEREGE — UMR 161 (Marseille)
LOCEAN — UMR 182 (Paris)
ISE-M — UMR 226 (Montpellier)
GET — UMR 234 (Toulouse)
EXAMINATION BOARD(S)
CSS1 AND CSS3
RESEARCH DISCIPLINE(S)
0ST
VI – E ar th S c ien ces
11 – Natural environments : Earth, Ocean, Atmosphere (TOA)
11.3 - Geochemistry
RECRUITMENT LEVEL
CR 2 - CONCOURS N° 11
OBJECTIVES
The consequences of climate change, such as changes in temperature and
precipitation, are potentially catastrophic in tropical and sub-tropical regions. Recent
decades have been relatively well-documented, however the period of observation is
too short to calculate exactly how ecosystems have responded in the preceding
millennia. In order to study climatic and environmental changes equivalent in
amplitude and duration to the results from current models, it is necessary to study
paleoclimatic archives, such as sedimentary or speleothemic records.
Paleoclimatic study uses a panel of techniques such as the use of bio-indicators
(including pollen, diatoms, vegetal macro-remains, shells) and isotopic dating. Such
field and laboratory combined approaches, with the addition of modelling, enable the
understanding of paleoclimatic changes in the tropical belt, and to place anticipated
developments in a more precise context. The understanding of underlying mechanisms
can lead to improved predictions. The aim is thus to link the detailed study of
paleoclimatic archives and modelling that will enable a quantitative reconstruction of
paleoclimates.
In relation to the projects undertaken in the developing world, the emphasis will rest
on the reconstruction of spatial and temporal variability of the monsoon in Africa, Asia
and South America by evaluating the impact of fluctuations in precipitation on the
hydrologic cycle and continental environments. These reconstructions can be then be
compared to recent climatic records. Based on structural apparatus from the IRD and
its partners, these projects will also enable 'Developing' partnerships between
America/Africa/Asia, cemented by the IRD and partnership with the developed world.
Extended-duration assignments and/or regular travel abroad from the principal
location of this appointment should be expected, in order to pilot studies in the
tropical zone where the unit is developing partnerships.
SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS
REQUIRED
Doctorate and post-doctorate in environmental geosciences
Skills in climatology/paleoclimatology and micropaleontologic analysis and/or isotopic
geochemistry
Skills in climate and environmental modelling
Aptitude for pluri-disciplinary work, a real interest in research and cooperation with
developing nations
THEMES LINKED TO CONTRACT
OBJECTIVES
Research and training activity requiring placements abroad
Climate change and variability
Ecosystems and biodiversity