Wednesday, April 10, 2013

Postdoctoral Researcher in “Stable Isotope Biogeochemistry” 2013 - Switzerland

Postdoctoral Researcher in “Stable Isotope Biogeochemistry”
 
The position is within the SNF project “ALPWAX - Developing a molecular ISOSCAPE for an alpine watershed to mechanistically assess the spatial variability of leaf wax lipid dD values in plants, soils and sediments”. Leaf wax lipids are hydrocarbons that are abundant in leaves, soils and sediments. Their stable hydrogen isotope composition (δD) has been proposed to be a powerful new proxy for hydrological processes and ecosystem water relations that can be applied to address important research questions in the context of global environmental change. Using an ETH experimental alpine watershed, the candidate will employ geostatistical tools (ISOSCAPES) to assess the spatial variability of the hydrological signals that are recorded in leaf wax lipid δD values, and b) resolve the processes that integrate the inherent variability of leaf wax lipid δD values that has been observed among different plant species in the soil and sediment record. This research will prepare the candidate with the opportunity to pursue a scientific career e.g. in biogeochemistry, paleoclimatology, plant physiology or ecosystem sciences. The research will be carried out within a 3-year project, starting as soon as an appropriate candidate has been found.
We look for a dynamic, reliable and motivated candidate with a PhD in biogeochemistry, organic geochemistry, ecosystem sciences or related disciplines. Strong interest in process-oriented research and hands-on experiences with stable isotope ratio mass spectrometers and/or geospatial statistical tools are beneficial. Teamwork within the group requires spoken and written English language skills.

Further information can be obtained from Prof. Ansgar Kahmen, kahmena@ethz.ch (no applications please).

Please apply online at www.jobs.ethz.ch and address your application (CV, transcripts, letter of motivation) to: ETH Zurich, Mr. Rolf Oertli, Human Resources, 8092 Zürich.