The Terrestrial Biogeochemistry Laboratory in the Department of Earth and Environmental Science of the University of Pennsylvania invites applicants for competitive Ph.D. fellowships in one of two research areas:
Soil carbon biogeochemistry: The primary focus is on the various biological, chemical and physical processes that contribute to soil organic matter stabilization and destabilization in both temperate and tropical surface soils. The current opportunity centers on the further development and application of thermal analysis to the characterization of soil organic matter, with increasing emphasis on cross-correlations with other advanced analytical techniques, and the quantification of pyrogenic carbon forms such as biochar. Urban biogeochemistry: New and evolving research projects are being developed to study the biogeochemical functioning of urban ecosystems in collaboration with the USFS Philadelphia Field Station. Emphasis will be on the cycling and storage of carbon and nutrients in soil, biotic and aquatic components of urban, suburban and peri-urban ecosystems. These fellowships are ideal for candidates who have completed an MSc in ecosystem ecology, soil science, geosciences, environmental chemistry, or related fields, but outstanding BSc graduates in such programs will be considered. Good written and oral communication skills and ability to work on a team are necessary. For further information about current research and available positions please contact Dr. Alain Plante by email (apla...@sas.upenn.edu) or consult the departmental website (http://www.sas.upenn.edu/earth). Applications can be submitted directly online (https://www.applyweb.com/upenng/) before December 15.
