Biogeochemical Modeller, Soil Carbon (6-month contract)

We're looking for a hands-on biogeochemical modeller to join our Research & Compliance team on a six-month contract. The role is UK-based and remote-friendly, with some overlap expected with our US project teams. This is a build-focused, roll-up-your-sleeves role for someone who likes both the science and the shipping: your expertise in soil biogeochemistry and modelling will directly inform the design and development of high-quality rangeland/grassland regeneration projects across the US and Mexico. You’ll work alongside a world-class, purpose-driven team that moves at speed and strives for maximum impact.
What you'll be doing

• Run, calibrate, and extend our multi-model strategy: DayCent and RothC at the core, SNAPGRAZE and ecosys alongside them, with an eye on newer approaches (MEMS, RangeSTAR).
• Own calibration and validation to Isometric's (or equivalent) requirements: meet the standard's expectations for model performance, and keep the pipeline reproducible, version-controlled, and audit-ready.
• Quantify the regeneration signal: isolate management-driven SOC change from baseline and natural variability, fuse field measurements with remote sensing, and characterise uncertainty.
• Use AI to scale and speed workflows and sharpen model performance.
• Carry the science through certification under the Isometric (or equivalent) standard: produce the calibration, validation, and documentation the standard requires.
• Underpin investor and technical due diligence: prepare the methods write-ups, evidence, and uncertainty analysis the team relies on.

• Master’s Degree or PhD in Soil Science, Environmental Science, or a related field with a strong emphasis on biogeochemistry and ecosystem modelling.
• Proficiency in process-based SOC biogeochemical models (e.g., DayCent, RothC, ecosys)
• Strong quantitative skills, with Python and/or R for analysis and modelling workflows
• A pragmatic, ship-it mindset, comfortable owning messy problems end-to-end.
• Clear written communicator who can make a model defensible on paper: documenting assumptions, limitations, and uncertainty so the work speaks for itself.
• Able to work independently and as part of a team across time zones, with initiative and a proactive approach.

Desirable

• Remote sensing and GIS experience
• Familiarity with the carbon-removal standards landscape (Isometric; Verra VM0042) and what independent verification demands of a model
• Experience with rangeland/grassland systems, ideally in North America

What we offer

• The opportunity to make a real impact around the world
• Competitive compensation package
• Flexible work hours with emphasis on results
• International office locations

Cultivo is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, family or parental status, veteran or disability status. Please contact [email protected] if you need special assistance during the recruiting process due to a disability.