PhD Scholarship in Blue Carbon: Sorbonne University invites applications for a fully funded PhD position focused on soil organic matter (SOM) stabilisation in mangrove ecosystems, as part of an international research collaboration with the University of São Paulo (USP) and CNRS under the TROPECOS project. The PhD candidate will investigate carbon stabilisation processes, microbial activity, and soil biogeochemistry across contrasting Brazilian mangrove sites, contributing to a better understanding of “blue carbon” storage for climate change mitigation.
Fully Funded PhD Scholarship in Blue Carbon and Mangrove Soil Carbon Stabilisation | Sorbonne University, France
Summary Table
| Position | PhD Scholarship – Blue Carbon & Mangrove Soil Carbon Stabilisation |
|---|---|
| Institution | Sorbonne University, Paris, France |
| Collaborating Institutions | CNRS (France), University of São Paulo (Brazil) |
| Research Area | Soil Biogeochemistry, Blue Carbon, Mangrove Ecology |
| Location | Sorbonne University (France) with fieldwork in Brazil |
| Funding | Fully funded (~€2200 gross/month) |
| Start Date | January 2026 (earliest) |
| Application Deadline | Open until filled |
| Contact | Dr. Cornelia Rumpel — cornelia.rumpel@inrae.fr |
| Apply Here | Application Form (Google) |
Designation
PhD Candidate (Doctoral Student)
Research Area
- Blue Carbon Ecosystems
- Soil Organic Matter (SOM) Stabilisation
- Mangrove Ecology & Geomorphology
- Soil Biogeochemistry & Microbial Activity
- Carbon Cycling and Climate Change Mitigation
Location
- Host University: Sorbonne University, France
- Fieldwork: Brazilian mangrove ecosystems
- Collaboration: University of São Paulo (USP) & CNRS
Eligibility / Qualification
Required:
- Master’s degree in Soil Science, Ecology, Environmental Sciences, Physical Geography, Chemical Oceanography, Coastal Ecosystems, or related fields
- Strong understanding of coastal ecosystems and the soil carbon cycle
- Proven international research experience
- Proficiency in English (B2 level or higher); IELTS certification preferred
- Willingness to travel nationally and internationally for fieldwork, sampling, and meetings
- Enthusiasm for laboratory soil analysis and repetitive analytical tasks
- Capability to conduct fieldwork in coastal and remote environments
Job Description
The PhD student will:
- Conduct field sampling of soils in Brazilian mangroves
- Perform laboratory analysis on soil organic matter (SOM) using advanced methods in microbiology and biogeochemistry
- Apply density fractionation techniques to separate decomposable and stabilised SOM fractions
- Investigate elemental and isotopic compositions to determine SOM stabilisation processes
- Study microbial communities and their role in SOM degradation and storage
- Collaborate closely with a twin PhD student in Brazil under the international TROPECOS project
- Participate in joint meetings, training sessions, and co-authored publications
Supervisory Team
- Dr. Cornelia Rumpel (INRAE, France)
- Dr. Marie Arnaud (CNRS, France)
- Dr. Tiago Osorio Ferreira (University of São Paulo, Brazil)
- Dr. Francisco Ruiz (University of São Paulo, Brazil)
📩 Contact: cornelia.rumpel@inrae.fr
Salary and Benefits
- Salary: €2200 gross/month (~€1700 net)
- Paid Leave: 5 weeks of annual paid vacation
- Transport: 50% subsidy for Navigo Pass (public transport)
- Health Coverage: National health insurance + 50% private insurance contribution
- Other Benefits:
- Annual sustainable mobility bonus
- Retirement pension scheme
- Free professional training (hard & soft skills)
How to Apply
- Complete the online application form here:
🔗 https://forms.gle/kTaTuefxh7QN9Ky7A
(Google account required) - The application portal will remain open until a suitable candidate is found.
Last Date to Apply
Open until filled (Apply early – position may close once filled).
