PhD Student Position in Soil Science

Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences Department of Forest Ecology & Management, Umeå PhD STUDENT POSITION in Soil Science Carbon flux through tree roots 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.However, we lack precise quantitative knowledge about the processes involved.A major uncertainty is the role of root turnover, i.e.the rates of growth and death of fine roots.In this case estimates vary considerably, which is most unfortunate given the large potential contribution of root turnover to the global carbon budget, but also given the importance of this carbon flux in an ecological plant and soil perspective.The candidate will study root turnover and associated processes using stable isotope methods.The work will be conducted in boreal forest of northern Sweden in collaboration with an international team. The student will be enrolled in the PhD program and is expected to fulfill course requirements and perform certain administrative functions.The position lasts for 48 months during which the holder of the position is supposed to obtain a PhD degree.Education: Candidates for this position should have a B.Sc.or preferably M.Sc.in Soil Science or Plant Ecology and writing skills in English.Knowledge of stable isotope methods and mathematical modelling is desirable.More information: Prof.Peter Högberg, Dept.of Forest Ecology and Management, SLU, SE-901 83 Umeå, Sweden.Please note that the department is under formation and so is its web site!SLU is an Equal Opportunity Employer.You are welcome to submit your application, labelled with the reference number ref.nr 995/07 including CV motivation (½ - 1 page) to why you would like to achieve a PhD degree name, phone number and E-mail of three referees and other documents you like to attach.Submit the application not later than April 23, 2007 to: Registrator, SLU, Box 7070, 750 07 Uppsala, Sweden. For information on the SLU and Umeå University Campus please see www.slu.se and www.umu.se