The independent junior research group “Biogeochemical Model-Data Integration” at the Max-Planck-Institute for Biogeochemistry in Jena (http://www.bgc-jena.mpg.de/bgc-mdi), Germany, is offering a
PhD Position
on Modelling Soil Carbon Processes in Permafrost Regions
The research group is dedicated to a better understanding of the role of vegetation-soil feedbacks for biogeochemical cycles within the Earth system. In particular we are focusing on the interaction between the carbon and water cycles at different spatial and temporal scales.
The PhD candidate will contribute to these issues from a modelling perspective. We are using dynamic global vegetation models which combine representations of biogeochemical fluxes and terrestrial vegetation dynamics to address the response of ecosystem functions to climate change. However, such models are poor in representing processes in the high latitudes, in particular carbon processes in permafrost soils. Therefore, this position is dedicated to further develop a global process model with respect to soil carbon processes and their interaction with vegetation processes in the Arctic.
Key requirements for this PhD position are scientific enthusiasm, strong abilities in quantitative, abstract and system-oriented thinking, and the ambition to publish results in international peer-reviewed journals (English language), as well as advanced practical skills with respect to model development and scientific programming. In-depth knowledge about a specific ecosystem model is not required. Candidates with a background (Diploma, Master or equivalent) in any quantitative science (e.g. geo-ecology or other geo-science, environmental and natural sciences, applied mathematics or computer science) are fitting for these positions, given their strong motivation to complement their past training. Experience with at least one of the following topics is helpful: system modeling (differential equations), soil or vegetation ecology, advanced statistical data analysis.
We offer an international, highly creative and dynamic work environment at one of the European key institutions for biogeochemical cycle studies. The training and qualification of the PhD student is regarded as an important goal within the group and the candidate is likely to achieve a high attractiveness in diverse professional fields through the methodological competence gained during the anticipated PhD-project. Jena is an attractive, lively town with a strong and very historical university, several high-tech companies, a beautiful hilly landscape and fast train connections to Metropolitan Areas like 1 hour to Leipzig or 2½ hours to Berlin.
The position is financed for three years by the European Marie-Curie Initial Training Network Greencycles II (www.greencycles.org). Within this network, the PhD is embedded into a workpackage about high-latitude processes, and one of the partner institutions, Lund University also co-supervises the PhD project. Therefore, some short-term (days to weeks) visiting of this partner institution is required. Also, training workshops for all of the PhD students and post-docs employed by the network are an important component of the training program. In addition, collaboration with Canadian and Russian scientists is foreseen with possible field trips, which also will require business trips.
Employment follows the eligibility criteria of the Marie-Curie scheme, in particular regarding international mobility. Researchers in their first four years (full-time equivalent) of their career are eligible for this position. At the start of their fellowship, researchers may not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc) in Germany for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately prior to the reference deadline for eligibility. German nationals are eligible only if they have been active in research in a Third Country for at least three of the last four years.
Salary follows the rules of the European Commission’s Marie Curie Actions (http://ec.europa.eu/research/mariecurieactions/), which is significantly higher than following the rules of the German public service. The 3-year position can start in April 2010. The Max Planck Society seeks to increase the number of female scientists and encourages them to apply. Handicapped persons with comparable qualifications receive preferential status.
Please include in your application your motivation, curriculum vitae, copies of your high-school and academic certificates, a list of publications/presentations/qualifications, and names and contact information of at least two references. Please also attach the 1-3 most representative and valuable examples of your past scientific work (submitted manuscripts will of course be treated confidentially). Applications should arrive before 15.02.2010, but will be also accepted until the position is filled at: Max Planck Institute for Biogeochemistry; Corinne Sacher; P.O. Box 100164; DE-07701 Jena, Germany, or preferably via e-mail as one or two pdf-files to csacher(at)bgc-jena.mpg.de. Regarding questions please also contact Dr. Christian Beer via email (cbeer(at)bgc-jena.mpg.de) or at ++49-3641-576281.