A Postdoctoral Scholar position is immediately available to work in a collaborative research project on the role of biochar and other approaches to reducing greenhouse fluxes from dairy operations. The successful candidate will perform lab and field work in the areas of soil biogeochemistry and biogeophysics with a goal of determining properties of biochar and soil conditions that can lead to reduction of methane emissions from dairy manure and compost. The postdoc hired for this position will be expected to work independently and in collaborative teams, both in the lab and field conditions, develop novel research ideas, and write research papers in a timely manner. In addition, the postdoc will be able to mentor graduate students and undergraduate students who will work on relevant projects as needed.

Qualifications: Applicants must have obtained a Ph.D. in biogeochemistry, soil science, ecology, agroecology, or a related fields. The ideal candidate will be highly motivated and the desirable expertise include knowledge of biochar production and characterization; applications of isotopic and spectroscopic methods in biogeochemistry/biogeophysics, agronomic or similar field trials; measuring greenhouse gas fluxes; and excellent data analyses and communication skills.

Applicants are required to submit 1) curriculum vitae, 2) cover letter, 3) a list of three references with contact information including phone number and e-mail address using the Recruit system.

Salary is based on the University of California Academic Salary Scales. Position is open until filled with a final closing date of December 22, 2020. The position is a full-time, benefits-eligible, 12-month appointment. The initial appointment is for one year with the possibility of extension based on satisfactory performance and the availability of funding.

For more information, please contact Dr. Asmeret Asefaw Berhe (aaberhe@ucmerced.edu), Rebecca Ryals (rryals@ucmerced.edu), and/or Teamrat A. Ghezzehei (taghezzehei@ucmerced.edu) for additional information.

The University of California is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and invites applications from all qualified applicants, including women, minorities, veterans, and individual with disabilities, who will enrich the teaching, research and public service missions of the university. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status. For the complete University of California nondiscrimination and affirmative action policy, see: UC Nondiscrimination & Affirmative Action Policy (https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/4000376/DiscHarassAffirmAction).

The University of California, Merced, is the newest of the University of California system’s 10 campuses. With 8,500 undergraduate and graduate students (https://www.ucmerced.edu/fast-facts), UC Merced provides outstanding educational opportunities to highly qualified students from the heart of California, the nation, and abroad. The campus has special connections to nearby Yosemite National Park; is on the cutting edge of sustainability in construction and design; and supports the economic development of Central California. The Merced 2020 Project doubled the physical capacity of the campus, and enhanced academic distinction, student success, and research excellence (https://merced2020.ucmerced.edu/).