Ph.D. in Soil Ecology

Collaborating research teams at University College Dublin (Ireland) and Wageningen University & Research Centre (the Netherlands) invite applications from outstanding graduates with a background in ecology, soil science, environmental science or a related discipline to undertake research towards a doctoral degree (PhD) in a project titled:

“Soil fauna functions in soil structure, water regulation and nutrient cycling”.

This project will focus on the biophysical and biochemical functions of earthworms in soil in different land use and tillage systems. Experimental work will involve a range of approaches, including mesocosms and stable isotope tracers to quantify the fate of nutrients; mini-lysimeters for hydrological measurements, and earthworm population and macropore assessments in tilled and non-tilled agroecosystems. Field work will entail research periods at a partner field site in France.

This is a unique opportunity for a highly-qualified candidate to study for a double-award PhD degree in an international setting. The student will be registered at University College Dublin for the first two years and at Wageningen University for the final two years of the project. The minimum qualification for applicants is a MSc degree (or equivalent 5-year degree) in a relevant discipline and certified English language competence (the project will be conducted through English).

The student will be supervised jointly by Prof. Tom Bolger and Dr. Olaf Schmidt (University College Dublin) and Prof. Lijbert Brussaard and Dr. Jack Faber (Wageningen UR). The gross value of this studentship is €24,000 per year for up to 4 years, commencing on 1st June 2011 or as soon as possible thereafter.

Application Procedure

Candidates who wish to apply for this position are requested to download, complete and submit the dedicated application form for this project, available at:

http://www.ucd.ie/graduatestudies/prospectivestudents/studentshipsscholarships/phdopportunities/

Further details are contained in this form.
Closing date for receipt of applications: Monday, 18th April 2011.
Recruitment will continue after this date until the position is filled.

This studentship is part of the EcoFINDERS Project: “Ecological Function and Biodiversity Indicators in European Soils” funded under the EU’s 7th Framework Programme.