Post-Doctoral Research Associate in Soil Science, Department of Biosystems Engineering & Soil Science: UTIA

University of Tennessee • Knoxville, TN

4d • Onsite

About The Position

The Department of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science at the University of Tennessee–Knoxville is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher with expertise in soil health and agroecology. This position will focus on investigating the agronomic and ecological impacts of soil health-building practices within diverse ecosystems. The successful candidate will have demonstrated experience in both laboratory and field-based research, as well as strong data analysis and technical writing skills. Experience in in organic cropping systems, microbial sequencing or meta-analysis is highly desirable. In addition to research responsibilities, the postdoc will be expected to mentor undergraduate and entry-level graduate students, support the operation and maintenance of laboratory instruments, and contribute to a collaborative and dynamic research group. This is a grant-funded position and is contingent upon the continued funding of the grant.

Requirements

• By the time of hire, the successful candidate should hold a Ph.D. in Soil Science, Agronomy, Soil Ecology, Environmental Science, or a closely related field with a soil health-relevant major.
• Overseeing field experiments, including soil sampling and collection of agronomic and environmental data.
• Leading the preparation and publication of peer-reviewed research articles.
• Working in a dynamic, collaborative, and interdisciplinary research environment.
• Deep understanding of grand challenges and innovative solutions related to soil health in field-crop and pasture systems, in particular organic systems.
• Demonstrated laboratory skills for the analysis of soil carbon and other soil health indicators
• Proficiency in data analysis and visualization using relevant statistical and computational tools.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for both scientific and outreach audiences.
• Excellent work ethics, time management, and organizational skills.

Nice To Haves

• Formal certification or training in data analysis
• One year of post-Ph.D. research experience
• Proficiency in microbial nucleic acid extractions, high-throughput sequencing, meta-analysis

Responsibilities

• Manage on-going long-term agricultural field experiments and establish new experimental trials
• Design and execute hypothesis-driven research focused on soil health and microbial ecology
• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory instrumentation, including carbon and nitrogen analyzers and gas chromatographs.
• Publish peer-reviewed research articles as well as extension articles
• Mentor undergraduate and graduate (M.S. level) students in research projects and professional development
• Contribute to grant proposal preparations and outreach events and assist with laboratory management and organization.
• Hold a valid driver's license and be able to travel to field sites across Tennessee as needed.

Benefits

• Find more information on the UT Market Range structure here
• Find more information on UT Benefits here

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree