Post-doctoral fellow in biogeochemistry - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Subject description
It is widely recognized that the expansion of silica biomineralization in the oceans has affected evolutionary competition for dissolved Si (DSi). This resulted in changes in the global biogeochemical cycles of silica, carbon and other nutrients that regulate ocean productivity and ultimately climate. Today, low DSi reflects its efficient uptake by diatoms. However, little is known about how shifting DSi concentrations from biological uptake by different siliceous organisms have changed in the oceans. In addition, the inputs of DSi, especially from weathering and tectonic processes, has varied over time. The major goal of the overall project is to investigate the interactions between biosilicification in organisms and the environment and how these interactions have evolved.

Work duties
The main duties involved in a post-doctoral posistion is to conduct research. Teaching may also be included, but up to no more than 20% of working hours. The position shall include the opportunity for three weeks of training in higher education teaching and learning.

• Clean and separate diatoms, radiolarians and sponge spicules from sediment material.
• Prepare and measure Si stable isotopes to determine changes in biosilicification in fossil material.
• Prepare and measure supporting geochemical and geological proxies to determine Si sources and cycling.

Administration related to the work duties listed above.

Qualification requirements
Appointment to a post-doctoral position requires that the applicant has a PhD, or an international degree deemed equivalent to a PhD, within the subject of the position, completed no more than three years before the last date for applications. Under special circumstances, the doctoral degree can have been completed earlier.

Additional requirements:

• A PhD in the Geosciences.
• Very good oral and written proficiency in English.
• Practical experience in chemically cleaning siliceous microfossils.
• Practical experience in stable isotope geochemistry.
• Practical experience with relevant analytical techniques (quadrpole ICP-MS, multi-collector ICP-MS, scanning electron microscope (SEM), and ion exchange chromatography).
• The person should have the ability to work at other locations for (weeks to months) to measure Si isotopes.
• Expertise in the biogeochemical cycling of Si and C.
• Experience in working with samples from marine sediment archives.
• Knowledge to connect variation in biosilicification in siliceous organisms with the biogeochemical cycle silica in the environment.

Assessment criteria and other qualifications
This is a career development position primarily focused on research. The position is intended as an initial step in a career, and the assessment of the applicants will primarily be based on their research qualifications and potential as researchers.

Particular emphasis will be placed on research skills within the subject.

For appointments to a post-doctoral position, the following shall form the assessment criteria:

• A good ability to develop and conduct high quality research.

Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive and independence, and how the applicant’s experience and skills complement and strengthen ongoing research within the department, and how they stand to contribute to its future development.

Terms of employment
This is a full-time, fixed-term employment of a maximum of 2 years. The period of employment is determined in accordance with the agreement “Avtal om tidsbegränsad anställning som postdoktor” (“Agreement on fixed-term employment as a post-doctoral fellow”) between Lund University, SACO-S, OFR/S and SEKO, dated 4 September 2008.

Instructions on how to apply
Applications shall be written in English and be compiled into a PDF-file containing:

• CV, including a list of publications.
• A general description of past research including knowledge and experience regarding the requirements for the position (no more than two pages).
• Contact information of at least two references.
• Copy of the doctoral degree certificate, and other certificates/grades that you wish to be considered.