PhD student in Soil Science

Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences Department of Soil and Environment in Ultuna 1 PhD student in the research education subject: Soil Science Micronutrients in soil and crop Micronutrients occur naturally in arable soils but will be depleted unless replaced.This is particularly serious in highly productive agriculture with high yields and high exports.There are indications of negative effects on plant productivity and product quality in Sweden, but only limited knowledge.The aim of the project is to fill in the knowledge gaps, particularly concerning changes in levels of micronutrients and trace elements in cereal grains and agricultural soils over time, definition of sufficient levels in crops to avoid yield decline, strategies for fertilization, etc.The methodology includes analysis of data from current long-term experiments, Swedish soil and crop monitoring program, and pot trials as well as new experimentation, and the work will be performed within a group of 5-6 Ph D students working in closely related subjects (soil respiration, resistant carbon, soil cultivation effects etc.).The research will involve collaboration with the research group at CIAT-TSBF, Nairobi concerning highly depleted soils.Other tasks at the Department (e.g., teaching or administrative work) may be included, up to a maximum of 20 % of full time.The PhD position involves research education at full time during four years. Qualifications An academic degree in natural sciences corresponding to at least 240 higher education credits (compatible with ECTS credits) of which at least 60 credits is in Soil Science or similar subjects.Good skills in English (both written and oral). Forms for funding or employment Employment as PhD student 4 years SLU is an Equal Opportunity Employer. A person has basic eligibility for third level education if he or she has taken a second level qualification or has completed course requirements of at least 240 higher education credits, including at least 60 higher education credits at second level.Those who met the requirements for general eligibility before July 1st, 2007, i.e.had completed a programme of higher education for at least 180 Higher education credits or the equivalent, will continue to do so until the end of 2015." Selection among applicants meeting the requirements is made with reference to written application including curriculum vitae, copies of degrees and transcripts of academic records, one copy of the dissertation for masters or undergraduate degree, a list of at least two references familiar with the applicant's qualifications, certified knowledge of the English language and an interview. Read more about the PhD education in the Handbook for postgraduate students Read about the PhD education at SLU at www.slu.se/PhD Applications, marked with ref no 875/09, must have arrived at the Registrar of SLU, P.O.