PhD opportunity in human-induced past environmental change
(geoarchaeology, pedology, geomorphology)
Subject to final approval of funding, we seek applicants for a three year PhD scholarship to work on "Geomorphodynamics and Soil Development in a Centre of Historic Charcoal Production".
The PhD project will be part of the new research initiative "Applied Ecosystem Research and Landscape Change" coordinated by Dr. Thomas Raab at the Brandenburg Technical University (BTU) Cottbus. The study area is located nearby the University in the Lusatian lignite mining region 120 km southeast of Berlin.
Research in the Geopedology and Landscape Development Group
(http://www.tu-cottbus.de/fakultaet4/de/bodenschutz/) at BTU Cottbus is aimed at 1) building our knowledge of Quaternary environmental change with special emphasis on human-induced processes during historic and prehistoric time (e.g. early farming and mining, vegetation changes, clearing), 2) enhancing our understanding of past geomorphodynamics and soil development
and 3) applying this knowledge to evaluate the regeneration potential of disturbed ecosystems and assisting in the management of soils as an important resource in modern landscapes.
Candidates should have a strong background in physical geography (especially geomorphology) and soil science. Knowledge in GIS modelling is basically needed. Field experience in the study of soils, sediments and landforms is required.
Interested students are encouraged to contact me as soon as possible via email (raab@tu-cottbus.de) and to send a CV together with the names of two referees. Due to final approval no official application can be considered at this stage. The position will start on the 1st of January 2010.
!!!Personal contact and interviews could be organized during the AGU Fall Meeting 2009 in San Francisco!!!
