"Postdoctoral Researcher in Soil Ecology and Microbiology"

Job/Project Description

We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join an interdisciplinary research project focused on understanding the ecological interactions within soil systems, with an emphasis on microbial communities and their role in soil health. The project combines aspects of soil ecology, soil microbiology, and soil biology to explore the dynamic interactions between soil microorganisms, their environment, and nutrient cycling. This position offers a unique opportunity to investigate how soil microorganisms contribute to soil structure, fertility, and ecosystem functions in both natural and managed ecosystems.

The postdoctoral researcher will contribute to the investigation of several key questions related to soil health and microbial activity, including but not limited to:

• The role of soil microorganisms in nutrient cycling and their impact on soil fertility and plant productivity.
• Investigating how microbial communities contribute to soil structure formation and stability in both disturbed and undisturbed ecosystems.
• Exploring the effects of environmental stressors on soil microbial dynamics and soil biodiversity.
• Analyzing the interactions between soil and microbes and their implications for ecosystem processes.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct advanced research on soil microbial communities using molecular techniques.
• Investigate the interactions between soil microbes and their environment using field and laboratory experiments.
• Analyze data on soil microbiomes, nutrient cycling, and soil biological processes.
• Develop models to predict microbial contributions to soil ecosystem functions under varying environmental conditions.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams of ecologists, microbiologists, soil scientists, and agronomists.
• Supervise graduate students and contribute to the mentoring of early-career researchers.

Qualifications:

• A Ph.D. in soil ecology, microbiology, soil biology.
• Strong background in molecular biology and microbial ecology, with experience in high-throughput sequencing techniques and bioinformatics analysis.
• Expertise in soil science, including soil nutrient cycling, soil microbiology, and ecosystem processes. Proven experience in experimental design and data analysis, with proficiency in statistical software.
• Experience with soil sampling, laboratory techniques, and field research.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.

Desired Skills:

• Familiarity with advanced microbiome analysis techniques (16S rRNA sequencing, shotgun metagenomics…).
• Experience with soil biodiversity assessments and bioinformatics tools for microbial community analysis.
• Knowledge of sustainable land management practices and their impact on soil health.
• Interest in the application of soil science to address global challenges such as climate change and ecosystem conservation.

How to Apply:

Interested candidates should submit the following documents:

• A detailed CV with a list of publications.
• A cover letter describing your research experience, interests, and motivation for applying to this position.
• Contact information for at least two references familiar with your academic and/or research work.
• A statement of research interests (max. 2 pages) outlining how your expertise aligns with the goals of the project.