We are looking for a postdoc to study the effects of biochar on soil biota and plant-soil interactions. Future energy demands may be met through pyrolosis of biomass, leading to `waste` products such as biochar. Biochar, similar to charcoal, has unique biochemical properties; notably being highly stable against decay. Therefore, recent studies have suggested that adding biochar to soils may sequester carbon and improve soil quality. However, the ecological impact of biochar addition is unclear and subsequently this project aims to address this with the appointment of two postdocs. The present position focuses on the effects of soil amendment with biochar on nutrient availability and resulting plant/soil and plant/plant interactions. The project is centered around a unique 4-year field experiment in a nature restoration area in the Netherlands. The postdoc will maintain and run the field site, design and execute experiments that quantify changes in nutrient availability and soil-plant interactions using state-of-the-art ecological and soil science techniques (e.g. 13C and 15N tracing), and co-organise workshops to disseminate research findings to the scientific community.
We ask for a highly motivated candidate with a doctoral degree in soil science or soil ecology, and experience with a broad range of soil analytical techniques and/or stable isotope tracing. The candidate should have organizational talents, be a team player with excellent communication skills and be willing to work abroad with international project partners for short periods of time. We offer Temporary appointment (0.8 fte) for 3.0 years, preferably starting January 2012. Salary depends on training and work experience.The maximum gross monthly salary coming with a full-time appointment will amount up to € 4374,– (scale 11, based on fulltime employment, Collective Agreement for Dutch Universities (CAO-Nederlandse Universiteiten).
Additional information:
Dr.ir. Jan Willem van Groenigen.
Telephone number +31 (0)317-484784.
E-mail address:
