PhD Position in Plant-Soil Interactions: Lund University’s Department of Physical Geography and Ecosystem Science invites applications for a fully funded PhD position to investigate plant-root interactions in Arctic tundra ecosystems. The project aims to understand the biotic and abiotic drivers influencing root traits and their impact on carbon and nitrogen cycles. The successful candidate will work with a multidisciplinary team, utilizing fieldwork and advanced modeling techniques to contribute to climate science research.
Fully Funded PhD Position in Plant-Soil Interactions in Arctic Tundra
- Importance of Roots in Ecosystems: 🌱 Roots are crucial for partitioning resources in plant development and ecosystem functions, especially in northern ecosystems like the Arctic tundra.
- Need for Understanding Root Function: 🧠 Despite their importance, root growth and function in tundra plants are poorly understood, particularly in the context of climate change.
- PhD Project Goals: 🎓 The project seeks to investigate the drivers of changes in plant root traits and their impacts on carbon and nitrogen cycles in ecosystems.
- Research Methodology: 🔍 The PhD candidate will conduct a meta-analysis of root traits and their relationships with biotic and abiotic drivers, using compiled databases and literature.
- Model Development: 🖥️ A dynamic vegetation model (LPJ-GUESS) will be developed to represent root dynamics, carbon allocation, and nutrient extraction in Arctic tundra ecosystems.
- Integration into Earth System Models: 🌍 The model will be incorporated into a regional Earth system model to assess future climate scenarios and their impacts on the global climate system.
- Funding and Supervision: 💰 The PhD position is fully funded by Swedish research grants and will be supervised by Dr. Wenxin Zhang and a team of researchers from Lund University, University of Copenhagen, and University of Gothenburg.
- Work Duties: 📚 Duties include participating in research projects, conducting fieldwork, teaching, model development, data analysis, and writing papers.
- Admission Requirements: 📝 Applicants should meet general and specific admission requirements for third-cycle studies in Physical Geography and Ecosystem Science.
- Additional Requirements: 🎓 High-quality research work, proficiency in English, and experience or knowledge relevant to Arctic plant physiology, ecosystem modeling, and climate change are desired.
- Eligibility: 📜 Candidates should have completed a second-cycle degree or equivalent and meet other eligibility criteria outlined in the Swedish Code of Statues.
- Application Process: 📄 Applications should be written in English and include a cover letter, CV, degree certificate, and other relevant documents.
- Type of Employment: ⏳ The position is limited to four years, according to regulations, and offers an opportunity for doctoral studies in a stimulating research environment.
Summary Table:
- Position: Fully Funded PhD Position
- Department: Physical Geography and Ecosystem Science
- University: Lund University
- Location: Lund, Skåne län, Sweden
- Start Date: August 1, 2024
- Duration: Four years
- Reference Number: PA2024/1466
- Contact: Dr. Wenxin Zhang, +46462220000
- Last Application Date: May 27, 2024, 11:59 PM CEST
Study Area: Plant-Soil Interactions in Arctic Tundra Ecosystems
Eligibility/Qualification:
- Applicants must hold a second-cycle qualification or equivalent.
- Proficiency in English (both oral and written).
- High-quality research work demonstrating potential as a researcher.
- Knowledge and skills in Arctic plant physiology, ecosystem modeling, and climate change.
- Experience in fieldwork, soil and plant sampling, and ecosystem modeling.
- Proficiency in Python/R/Matlab language.
Description:
The PhD candidate will investigate the drivers influencing plant root traits in Arctic tundra ecosystems and their impact on carbon and nitrogen cycles. This research will involve conducting meta-analyses, developing advanced root modules in vegetation models, and integrating them into Earth system models to assess climate feedbacks. The successful candidate will work closely with a team of researchers from Lund University, University of Copenhagen, and University of Gothenburg, contributing to Strategic Research Areas focused on climate change and ecosystem dynamics.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates should submit their applications in English, including a cover letter outlining their interest in the position and how their background aligns with the research project, a CV, degree certificate or equivalent, transcripts, contact information for references, and any other relevant documents. Applications must be sent by May 27, 2024, 11:59 PM CEST.
The Faculty of Science conducts research and education in various disciplines including Biology, Astronomy, Physics, Geosciences, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Environmental Science. The Faculty has approximately 1500 students, 330 PhD students, and 700 employees.
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Type of Employment: Temporary position
Salary: Monthly salary
Number of Positions: 1
Full-Time Equivalent: 100%
City: Lund
County: Skåne län
Country: Sweden
Union representatives: OFR/ST, SEKO, SACO
Published: May 6, 2024
Last Application Date: May 27, 2024, 11:59 PM CEST
