The Earth Surface Science group at Queen Mary University of London are seeking a 36-month postdoc with expertise in terrestrial biogeochemical modeling. 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=QMUL21261Applications 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 (
[email protected]) for confirmation of your intent to apply.
Deadline: Apply before 20th March 2020 for full consideration. The position will remain open until filled.
