Postdoctoral Researcher (R2) – RECREATE Catalan Institute for Water Research in Spain

The Catalan Institute for Water Research (ICRA) in Girona, Spain, is recruiting one Postdoctoral Researcher (R2) for the RECREATE project, funded by the European Union under the Horizon Europe framework programme.

This full-time, temporary postdoctoral appointment runs for 12 months and is expected to start between December 2026 and January 2027. The gross annual salary package is listed as 29,000€–38,000€.

The successful candidate will work on water science, water system modelling, water reuse technologies, and integrated water resource management. The role supports the Costa Brava Case Study Lead and contributes directly to project implementation, including water demand modelling, climate change scenario analysis, and the assessment of alternative water management strategies.

Key tasks include developing, implementing, and testing simulation models using the Urban Water optioneering Tool (UWOT), building future water management scenarios based on regional needs and stakeholder input, and contributing to technical deliverables for the European Commission. The researcher will also co-author scientific papers and reports, present findings at conferences and events, and support coordination with project partners to ensure milestones and deliverables are met on time.

Applicants should hold a PhD in Environmental Sciences, Water Science and Technology, or a related field and have at least 4 years of research experience including PhD studies. Essential skills include modelling with relevant water models, UWOT, QGIS, Python for data analysis, climate change projection and adaptation tools, and handling climate data such as COPERNICUS datasets. Strong scientific writing skills are also required. The post requires English C1 plus Spanish C1 and/or Catalan C1. Desirable experience includes surface and groundwater management, numerical modelling, climate scenario development, machine learning, environmental water chemistry, water governance, and big data management/visualization.

The position is based at ICRA – Catalan Institute for Water Research in Girona, Spain. Working conditions follow Spanish legislation and social security provisions. ICRA highlights an international research environment, a young and growing team, and opportunities for continuous training.

To apply, candidates must submit their CV, motivation letter, DNI or NIE (or a statement committing to obtain the necessary permit), and PhD degree documentation via the ICRA jobs page. The application deadline is 5 November 2026.