Institute for Sustainability, Energy and Environment University of Illinois Field Research Specialist: Plant-Soil-Microbe Interactions in Carbon and Nitrogen Biogeochemistry A field research specialist position is available as part of the Sustainability Theme in the new U.S. Department of Energy-funded Bioenergy Research Center (BRC), the Center for Advanced Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation (CABBI). The overall goal of the CABBI Sustainability Theme is to develop the predictive capability to determine which feedstock combinations, regions and land types, market conditions, and biofuels and bioproducts have the potential to support the ecologically and economically sustainable displacement of fossil fuels. The field research specialist will work with Dr. Wendy Yang and her Global Change Ecology and Stable Isotope Biogeochemistry lab to study plant-soil-microbe interactions in bioenergy cropping systems (sorghum, sugarcane, and Miscanthus) with regards to soil carbon and nitrogen cycling. This highly collaborative project involves working closely with other ecosystem ecologists, microbial ecologists, ecosystem modelers, ecophysiologists, ecohydrologists, and others in the CABBI Sustainability Theme. MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Conduct field work and laboratory experiments; analyze soil, gas, and water samples; support other lab activities. Perform field and laboratory research activities led by two postdoctoral research associates focusing on carbon and nitrogen biogeochemistry, respectively. Major responsibilities in the field include the following: sampling soil pore water and trace gas fluxes, and collecting soils for laboratory experiments. Will travel to research sites in Florida, Iowa and other locations in the eastern U.S. for short sampling campaigns. Major responsibilities in the laboratory include the following: analyzing soil, gas, and water samples; preparing reagents; conducting stable isotope pool dilution and tracer experiments; supervising undergraduate students assisting with this project (including training and assigning work, and tracking work performance and deliverables); and purchasing and receiving chemicals and scientific supplies related to this project. Depending on experience, there is also opportunity to assist with data compilation, data analysis, and manuscript preparation. Qualifications: Required: A bachelor’s degree in biology, environmental science, chemistry, or related field. Alternate degree fields will be considered/accepted depending on depth and breadth of experience and skills as related to this position. Research experience in the laboratory and/or field. Basic computer skills (MS Word, Excel); a valid driver's license and ability to travel to research sites in Florida, Iowa, and other locations in the eastern U.S. for short sampling campaigns Preferred: Research experience in the laboratory and in the field related to biogeochemistry (e.g., trace gas flux measurements, soil sampling, wet chemistry, gas chromatography). Ability to work in a large collaborative team environment; ability to work long days in the field under hot and humid conditions; strong organizational skills Salary: Commensurate with experience and qualifications Applications must be received by January 1, 2018. To apply, all candidates must submit an online profile through https://jobs.illinois.edu by the close of the posting period. Qualified candidates must upload a letter of which details qualifications noted above, resume and the names and contact information of three professional references. All requested information must be submitted for your application to be considered. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. For further information, please contact: Susan Key, Human Resources, susan...@illinois.edu Illinois is an Affirmative Action /Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and ideas who embrace and value diversity and inclusivity. (www.inclusiveillinois.illinois.edu) The University of Illinois conducts criminal background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~` Wendy H. Yang, Ph.D. Assistant Professor Departments of Plant Biology and Geology University of Illinois 265 Morrill Hall 505 South Goodwin Ave Urbana, IL 61801 Lab/Office: 639 Morrill Hall Office phone: 217-244-2614 http://sib.illinois.edu/yang
