The Department of Biogeochemical Processes at the Max-Planck Institute for Biogeochemistry, to be directed by Professor Susan Trumbore following the retirement of founding Director Professor E.-D. Schulze, invites applications for research scientists and postdoctoral researchers. MPI- BGC provides a stimulating and interdisciplinary research environment that houses excellent analytical and computational facilities and provides opportunities for field research in terrestrial ecosystems. Opportunities exist for 2-3 researchers (TVöD 13/14/15, equivalent to a nontenured research assistant professor). These positions are limited, with appointments for 3 to 6 years, with possibility for extension, depending on the individuals previous experience and applicable German laws. Associated support such as space, salary for students, and an annual research budget will be made available for these positions. Candidates should have a PhD in an appropriate natural science field and a strong record of research and publication as well as the desire and ability to supervise student research.
Postdoctoral researchers must have a Ph.D. degree in an appropriate natural science field. Appointments will be for two years, with possibility for extension for up to two more. In particular we seek candidates interested in pursuing collaborative and interdisciplinary research in terrestrial biogeochemistry and global environmental change. A particular strength of the Department will be in the use of isotopes and tracers as well as manipulative experiments to study the timescales and processes controlling terrestrial feedbacks to climate and land use change. Research areas of interest include, but are not limited to: - novel methods for determining plant allocation and respiration pathways and what factors control them; - processes and dynamics of organic matter stabilization and destabilization in soils; - biogeochemical effects of processes operating at the landscape level, including erosion/deposition and disturbance processes (extreme wind events, insect outbreak, or fire); Positions are available as soon as October 1, 2009. Initial review of applications will begin August 1, 2009. Salary and benefits are commensurate with those of public service organizations in Germany. The Max Planck Society seeks to increase the number of women in those areas where they are underrepresented and therefore explicitly encourages women to apply. The Max Planck Society is committed to employing more handicapped individuals and especially encourages them to apply. Applications should include a statement of your research interests and qualifications, a curriculum vitae, copies of relevant publications and the contact details of three academic referees. Please send applications in electronic form to Yvonne Kirmse <yki...@bgc-jena.mpg.de>. Questions should be directed to Susan Trumbore <trumb...@bgc-jena.mpg.de>
