PhD Student in Rhizosphere Biogeochemistry: The University of Lausanne (UNIL) invites applications for a fully funded PhD position in Rhizosphere Biogeochemistry of Coastal Wetlands within the Institutes of Earth Surface Dynamics (IDYST). Join our dynamic Soil Biogeochemistry group and contribute to cutting-edge research on the interactions of minerals, microbes, and organic matter in coastal marsh ecosystems. This position offers a unique opportunity to explore the impact of oscillatory drivers on carbon processing and storage in salt marsh wetlands threatened by sea level rise.
Designation: PhD student
Research Area: Rhizosphere Biogeochemistry of Coastal Wetlands
Location: Lausanne Mouline (Géopolis building)
Eligibility/Qualification:
- Master’s degree in biogeochemistry, environmental microbiology, plant and soil sciences, or a related field.
- Excellent knowledge of biogeochemical processes, with an interest in hydrology, microbial ecology, and plant physiology.
- Prior experience in basic geochemical or microbial lab procedures, data analysis, and research on soil biogeochemical processes in coastal marsh systems.
- Familiarity with plant biology, spectro/microscopic, and -omics tools is an advantage.
- Commitment to conducting research on soil biogeochemical processes regulating carbon fate in coastal marsh systems.
- Excellent skills in written and oral English; working knowledge of French is preferable but not necessary.
Job Description:
PhD Student in Rhizosphere Biogeochemistry of Coastal Wetlands (21315)
The successful candidate will conduct research on rhizosphere biogeochemistry in salt marsh soils, focusing on how oscillatory drivers (tidal oscillations and diel cycles) influence carbon processing and storage. The project involves growth chamber- and field-based experiments, utilizing cutting-edge chemical and biological analyses, including microsensor, metabolomics, and spectroscopic approaches. The research is part of a Simons Foundation-funded consortium exploring hydro-biogeochemical functioning in coastal marsh ecosystems.
How to Apply: Submit your full application through the university’s website by 31.12.2023. Include the following documents in Word or PDF format:
- Motivation letter
- Curriculum Vitae
- Copy of university degrees certificates and transcripts of marks/grades awarded
- Electronic version of a research output (MSc diploma thesis, research reports, proceedings paper, or other scientific publication)
- Contact information for two academic references
Only applications through the university’s website will be considered.
Last Date for Apply: 31 December 2023
What the Position Offers You:
- Fully funded PhD position at a competitive salary (~65K CHF/year, maximum of 4 years).
- Nice working place in a multicultural, diverse, and dynamic academic environment.
- Opportunities for professional training and other benefits.
For further information, contact Prof. Dr. Marco Keiluweit at marco.keiluweit@unil.ch. UNIL is committed to equal opportunities, diversity, and supporting early career researchers. Explore the resources available in the Faculty of Geoscience and Environments and contribute to cutting-edge research on Rhizosphere Biogeochemistry of Coastal Wetlands.
