Keen on unravelling controls of microbial carbon cycling in soils?

Soils are one of the most important sinks for globally increasing CO2. The Chair of Ecological Microbiology (Prof. Dr. Tillmann Lüders) at the University of Bayreuth is currently offering a:

Phd Position in Soil Microbiology (m/f/d), TV-L E 13 (65 %)
Controls of Carbon and Energy Turnover in Soil Microbiomes

The position is available from Jan 22, or as soon as filled, for a duration of three years. Research at the Chair of Ecological Microbiology is focussed on topics of groundwater microbiology, microbial interactions in soils, and the ecology of microbial biofilms. Our work is based on innovative combinations of fine-scale biogeochemical analysis, quantitative microbiology, next-generation sequencing, and stable isotope labelling.

Your tasks: We are looking for a highly motivated PhD candidate to work within the newly DFG-funded Priority Programme SPP 2322 “SoilSystems” (https://www.uni-trier.de/universitaet/fachbereiche-faecher/fachbereich-vi/faecher/bodenkunde/soilsystems/start). This exciting and interdisciplinary project aims at understanding the mechanisms of long-term C-stabilization and the thermodynamics of microbial C-utilization in soils. Our specific sub-project aims are:

  • To resolve microbial carbon use efficiency (CUE) and kinetics in soil as controlled by substrate chemistry
  • To quantify substrate-independent microbial growth and carbon utilization in soil via cutting-edge H218O DNA-Stable Isotope Probing (SIP)
  • To generate a data-driven bioenergetic model of microbial C utilization in soil

Your profile: You have a completed Masters’ degree in microbiology, molecular ecology, soil sciences or other closely related fields. A background in microbiology, molecular biology and/or biogeochemical analytics is expected. Experience in next-generation sequencing and stable isotope analyses are of benefit. You enjoy working in a team as well as independently. Candidates with a good written and spoken English are welcome.

Our offer: We offer a modern, well-equipped and diverse Environmental Microbiology research lab. The working atmosphere is characterized by a culture of active participation and interdisciplinary interaction. The project involves collaboration and close interactions with several other research groups within the SoilSystems SPP across Germany. Active involvement in workshops and meetings of the consortium are strongly encouraged.

Remuneration: you will be enrolled in accordance with German public service agreements (EG 13 65% TV-L). The position is available for three years. Handicapped applicants will be given preference if equally qualified. The University of Bayreuth aims to increase the proportion of women in science and particularly invites applications from female candidates.

Please send your complete application, incl. a motivation letter, your CV, certificates with transcripts of grades, publications (if available) and a reference person as one merged PDF to: tillmann.lueders@uni-bayreuth.de. The deadline for application is 15.12.2021, but selection will proceed a.s.a.p. Informal inquiries are welcome by e-mail or by phone (+49 (0) 921 555 640). Check us out at: https://www.bayceer.uni-bayreuth.de/mik/
 

Application deadline:
Start date: ASAP
Location: University of Bayreuth, Germany