Postdoctoral Fellows in Greenhouse Gas Fluxes and Biogeochemistry

The Ecosystems and Global Change Group (www.ecosystemchange.com) at Trent University jointly led by Prof Andrew Tanentzap (Canada Research Chair in Climate Change and Northern Ecosystems) and Dr Erik Emilson (Research Scientist, Canadian Forest Service sector of Natural Resources Canada, https://glfc-wet.github.io) is recruiting two postdoctoral fellows for the following projects:

Nature-based solutions to limit greenhouse gas emissions from freshwaters

Forest management is a pillar of mitigating climate change. But forests lose vast amounts of organic matter into receiving waters that risks offsetting their ability to sequester atmospheric carbon. You will quantify the amount of carbon lost from boreal forests into lakes by establishing two eddy flux covariance towers in northwestern Ontario, Canada. You will trace the flow of carbon seasonally from land and water into the atmosphere, and characterise the associated biogeochemical drivers.  The outcomes will inform a catchment-level experiment that will manipulate forest management, such as wildfire. You will have experience with geospatial modelling and gas exchange measurements, preferably using eddy flux covariance systems.  Funds for this position are initially available for two years with the possibility of renewal.

Climate impacts on organic matter

Organic matter is central to the function of waters and soils that support life on Earth.  You will lead a team of postgraduate researchers studying how climate warming will change the molecular composition of organic matter and its role in supporting ecosystem function.  You will manage and deliver a field survey of organic matter in soils and lakes across Canada and the United States over two years.  You will have experience sampling soil and water quality and experience analysing mass spectrometry data from environmental samples alongside statistical modelling.  Experience working for extended periods in remote locations often under physically challenging conditions (e.g. cold and wet) is highly desirable along with evidence of past project and team management.  Funds for this position are initially available for three years with the possibility of renewal.

The successful candidate for either position should have a proven track record of publication in leading peer-reviewed journals and hold, or shortly hold, a PhD in ecology, biogeochemistry, atmospheric/environmental chemistry, or a related discipline.

What we can offer: Our research training environment features some of the most advanced environmental research infrastructure in Canada, including access to a Fourier transform – ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometer, long-read (Oxford Nanopore) sequencing facility, radioisotope and stable isotope labs, and eddy covariance systems, with extensive support for field research (ATVs, snowmobiles, autonomous surface vessel).  As our team partners with government scientists, you will have a unique opportunity to influence environmental policy and make connections outside of academic to bolster your career.

All postdocs are offered competitive wages starting at $55,000/yr + benefits. Peterborough is one of the most affordable and desirable places to live in Ontario, offering the best of urban (70 mins to Toronto) and rural living all under 30 minutes to the heart of the Kawarthas that boasts endless lakes and forests to explore. Our group supports flexible working arrangements and supports applicants from diverse backgrounds as we strive to build a more equitable, diverse, and inclusive workplace.

How to apply: Please email Andrew Tanentzap (atanentzap@trentu.ca) with a CV and a description of how you meet the requirements for the respective post, what you hope to get out of working with us, and how your past experiences make you suitable for the independent and often challenging nature of research.  Both positions can start immediately and will remain open until filled.