3-year Postdoc – Arctic soil biogeochemical modelling
Queen Mary University of London, UK
The Earth Surface Science group at Queen Mary University of London are seeking a 36-month postdoc with expertise in terrestrial biogeochemical modelling. This post is part of an exciting new collaborative project with CU Boulder, U Utah, Montana Tech & British Geological Survey, investigating the fate of Arctic soil following glacier retreat.
Glacier retreat is exposing pioneer Arctic soils that host a dynamic ecosystem and act as biogeochemical reactors. The aim of this project is to improve the understanding of how seasonal processes contribute to the long-term (i.e. multi-decadal) development of Arctic soils. The PDRA will develop, implement and apply a new fully coupled biogeochemical-geophysical model for pioneer Arctic soils. These activities are linked to a larger project whose wider ambition is to achieve continuous year-round monitoring of dynamic processes using a network of buried geophysical sensors in a High-Arctic glacier forefield, and repeated field monitoring of soil biogeochemical processes via state-of-the-art molecular techniques.
Numerical modelling will be instrumental in forming mechanistic linkages between seasonal variations, and soil biogeochemical, geophysical and hydrogeological processes over multi-decadal timescales, as well as to capture and explore year-round dynamics of Arctic soils, and conduct predictive modelling of the future fate of Arctic soils following large-scale ice retreat and climate warming. Model development and calibration will make use of field datasets that will be collected during year-round fieldwork campaigns throughout 2020 and 2021, There will be opportunities for the PDRA to participate in project-related fieldwork activities in Svalbard.
The PDRA will work within a multidisciplinary team with significant strengths in environmental-biogeochemistry, modelling, geomicrobiology, and geophysical sensing – and thus develop an interdisciplinary skill set, and collaborate nationally and internationally.
This is a full time, fixed-term appointment for 36 months, starting on 1st May 2020 or as soon as possible after that date. The starting salary is £36,098 per annum, inclusive of London Allowance. The benefits package includes 30 days annual leave, pension scheme and an interest free season ticket loan.
Candidate specifications:
Applicants must have a PhD (by the time of appointment) or equivalent in a relevant natural science or engineering field, and have a track record of research productivity, including peer-reviewed publications in international journals. We are looking for candidates who can demonstrate skills and experience in numerical/reactive-transport modeling and biogeochemistry, with proven ability to work independently and take the initiative. The position is open to international candidates.
How to apply:
To apply, please click on the link below.
https://webapps2.is.qmul.ac.uk/jobs/job.action?jobRef=QMUL21261
Applications should include:
- A cover letter (max. 2 pages) stating your motivation for applying to this position, your research interests, and relevant skills, training and experience.
- Curriculum vitae.
- Copy of official transcript(s).
- Contact information for at least two and up to 3 references.
Please also email Dr. James Bradley (jbradley.earth@gmail.com) for confirmation of your intent to apply.
Deadline: Apply before 20th March 2020 for full consideration. The position will remain open until filled.
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James Bradley
Queen Mary University of London
United Kingdom
Email: jbradley.earth@gmail.com
Twitter: @DrBradBrad
