I have a position open for a postdoc in soil microbial ecology and biogeochemistry at the University of New Hampshire to study plant-soil interactions. Plants can stimulate nitrogen transformations by providing soil microbes with a labile carbon source, which can enhance microbial activity and induce microbial turnover, the upregulation of extracellular enzymes to break down soil organic matter, and ultimately nitrogen mineralization. Agricultural nitrogen losses could be reduced if we understood how plants coordinate the mineralization of nitrogen from organic pools to coincide with the timing and extent of plant demand for nitrogen. Our project examines the biological nitrogen mineralization processes driven by interactions among plant roots, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), and soil microbes, and assesses how these processes can be managed to maximize crop nitrogen nutrition and C sequestration while minimizing environmental nitrogen losses.
Candidates are expected to be highly motivated, possess strong English oral and written communication skills, and have demonstrated ability to publish high quality papers. Preference will be given to candidates with experience in relevant areas, which could include: 1) molecular approaches to studying soil microbial communities; 2) AMF community composition and function; and 3) isotopic approaches to studying soil carbon and nitrogen dynamics. Prior experience in agricultural systems is not required, and applicants with experience in very different ecosystems are encouraged to apply. My lab examines how soil organisms interact with their environment to regulate ecosystem processes such as nutrient cycling, organic matter turnover, trace gas emissions, and productivity. This research encompasses multiple spatial scales and lies at the interface of soil ecology, agronomy, and ecosystem science. While we use a range of fundamental laboratory methods, which include molecular chemical and microbiological approaches, we always have an eye towards applying results to improve ecosystem processes and management. To apply please send your CV with the names of three references and a 1-2 page statement of research interests and career goals to Stuart Grandy ([email protected]). More information about the lab can be found at (http://pubpages.unh.edu/~asf44/). The start date is flexible and could be anytime between now and January 15 2015. Applications will be considered until the position is filled, or until October 01. If you are interested in discussing this position I will be at the ESA annual meeting from August 10-15 and will be happy to discuss it. Stuart Grandy Associate Professor of Soil Biogeochemistry Rowland H. O'Neil Professor University of New Hampshire Website: http://pubpages.unh.edu/~asf44/
