Postdoctoral researcher in Forest Biogeochemistry and Enhanced Weathering
The Opportunity:
We invite applications for a postdoctoral position in forest biogeochemistry and enhanced weathering in the School of the Environment at Trent University, Canada. The project entails applying wollastonite (Ca-silicate) rock powder to a managed forest in Central Ontario over 3 years with the goals of (1) accurately quantifying C storage, (2) characterizing forest health and organic C responses, (3) developing novel approaches to quantify CO2 removal, and (4) assessing the scalability of wollastonite application to forest management practices. The postdoctoral fellow will play a key role in planning and executing this enhanced weathering project, overseeing data collection and analyses, mentoring students, reporting and publishing results, and interfacing with industry collaborators. The postdoctoral researcher will be jointly supervised by Profs. Ian Power (PowerGeolab.com) and Shaun Watmough. The prestigious School of the Environment is a leader in Canada for environmental research and innovation, with unparalleled career and hands-on learning opportunities, world-class laboratories, and premiere campus nature areas.
Qualifications:
The successful candidate will have a Ph.D. or equivalent degree in forest ecology, geoscience, biogeochemistry, Earth sciences, or a closely allied field. They will be independent, motivated, creative thinkers, and team players who can work across disciplines. Fluent English and a driver's license are required for the position. The candidate must possess field experience and be technically capable in the laboratory (e.g., routine and advanced analyses of soils, waters, and rocks). Candidates should have superior skills in one or more of the following: forest or soil biogeochemistry, environmental geochemistry, mineralogy, geochemical modelling, or hydrogeochemistry.
Terms of appointment:
The initial appointment will be for one year, with the possibility of renewal based on performance and funding availability. The salary is competitive and depends on the experience of the candidate. Healthcare benefits and vacation time are provided as part of the terms of employment.
How to apply:
Review of applications will begin on September 30, 2023, until the position is filled. The successful candidate will be expected to commence work in Fall 2023 or thereabouts. Applications should consist of (1) a short cover letter that outlines how the candidate fulfills the requirements of the position, (2) a full CV, (3) a 1-2-page letter of research experience and interests as it relates to this position, and (4) a list of contact information for no less than 3 referees. Applications should be sent as a single PDF to ianpower@trentu.ca. Queries about this opportunity should be sent to the same email address.
Commitment to diversity:
Trent University is proud to have signed the Dimensions: Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Canada Charter, which recognizes that a multiplicity of perspectives, lived experiences, and the overall complexity of diverse individuals foster increased research excellence, innovation, and creativity within the post-secondary sector. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage women; indigenous persons; members of visible minorities; persons with disabilities; persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression; and all those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas and the University to apply.
