Post-doctoral fellow in biogeochemical modelling with a focus on soil microbial ecology - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Job description

Soil microorganisms play a crucial role in the decomposition of organic matter, shaping terrestrial carbon and nutrient cycles, and contributing to the release of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, ultimately influencing climate feedback.

Over the last 20 years, substantial progress has been achieved in comprehending this complex and interconnected system. Scientific breakthroughs in the field of microbial ecology have revolutionised the way we understand how microbial communities in soils contribute to carbon cycling and the functioning of terrestrial ecosystems. This rapid paradigm shift has caused modelling approaches to slightly lag behind empirical state-of-the-art. Current biogeochemical and ecosystem-level models utilize outdated descriptions of carbon compounds and microbial communities in soils and lack a mechanistic representation of microbial processes.

This project aims to integrate recently uncovered ecological insights into modelling, particularly targeting the impact of climate (i.e., increased frequency of droughts, more extreme drying and rewetting events, and elevated temperatures) on soil organic carbon dynamics. A key task involves the integration of soil microbial features (e.g., EcoSMMARTS model) into a hydro-biogeochemical framework (e.g.,HYDRUS interface) for a more accurate mechanistic representation in models of the patterns of carbon emission/sequestration in soil vertical profiles. The merged model will be employed to investigate the nuances of perennial vs annual crop systems, seeking to uncover the pros and cons of each approach and contributing to the broader understanding of carbon dynamics in soil ecosystems.

The project exclusively focuses on modelling but is conducted in close collaboration and active two-way exchange with an empirical team. The candidate will serve as a link between these two research environments, represented by the Department of Physical Geography and Ecosystem Science and the Department of Biology.

Work duties

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

Detailed description of the work duties, such as:

• Conducting research within the subject area.
• Teaching in the first, second and third cycles of studies.
• Supervising students.
• Actively seeking external research funding.

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 Soil or Environmental Science, Engineering, Ecology, Biogeochemistry, or similar. The degree should have been completed no more than three years before the date of application (unless under special circumstances).

Additional requirements:

• Excellent programming skills, preferably in Matlab, Fortran or C/C++.
• Strong mathematical skills, including a solid understanding of ODEs and numerical methods.
• Extensive experience in biogeochemical and mechanistic modelling.
• In-depth knowledge of microbial ecology, terrestrial ecosystems dynamics, and soil science.
• Experience in bridging the gap between models and empirical work.
• Very good oral and written proficiency in English.

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 independently develop and conduct independent high-quality research.
• Publications in international peer-reviewed journals (leading role).

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 and OFR/S, dated 1st February 2022.

Instructions on how to apply

Applications shall be written in English and must include ALL the following elements (compiled into a single PDF-file):

• cover letter with a general description of past research and future research interests (max 2 pages),
• résumé/CV, including a list of publications (max 5 pages),
• copy of the doctoral degree certificate, and other certificates/grades that you wish to be considered (max 3),
• contact information of two references.

Welcome to apply!