PhD student in Soil science/ecology

Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences Department of Forest Ecology and Management in Umeå 1 PhD student in the research education subject: Soil science/ecology Carbon flux through roots of trees and understorey plants to soil microorganisms Most of the carbon that is released as carbon dioxide from ecosystems to the atmosphere is respired from soils.This release exceeds all anthropogenic emissions by almost an order of magnitude, yet there is a lack of precise quantitative knowledge about the processes involved.A major uncertainty is the role of root turnover, i.e.the rate of growth and death of fine roots.In this case estimates vary considerably, despite the large potential contribution of root turnover to the global carbon budget and the importance of this carbon flux in an ecological perspective.The candidate for this position is expected to fulfil the requirements for a PhD within 4 years.However, there will be a 6 month preparatory, preliminary employment period, during which the coming work will be planned in detail.The candidate will study root turnover and associated processes using stable isotope methods.The work will be conducted in boreal forests of northern Sweden in collaboration with an international team. Qualifications MSc or BSc in soil science or plant ecology.Writing skills in English.Knowledge of stable isotope methods, mathematical modelling, laboratory work and field work in boreal forests is desirable, as is a drivers license.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 Use this APPLICATION FORM http://www.slu.se/UserFiles/File/ansokningsblankett2_eng.doc Further information: Prof.Peter Högberg. Applications, marked with ref no 251-541/09, must have arrived at the Registrar of SLU, P.O.