The Department of Plant Ecology and Ecosystem Research at the Georg-August-Universitaet Goettingen, Germany, is looking to fill the position of a PhD Student. The position is funded for three years and includes full benefits. This position should be filled as soon as possible. Salary: Pay grade 50 % TV-L 13 (~1100 Euro/month, full benefits).
Project description: The PhD project will investigate the mediation of the tree-soil feedback by symbiotic root associations (arbuscular mycorrhizae, ectomycorrhizae) as influenced by increasing N availability and intensity of summer droughts under global change. We will examine how diverse microbial communities influence root longevity, exudation and absorption processes of forest trees in an interdisciplinary research approach. Modern methods will be part of the research, e.g., in situ root exudate collection, root observations by mini-rhizotron imaging and stable isotope labeling. Hypotheses will be tested with a combination of field investigations in a mixed forest stand (National Park) in Central Germany and experimental analyses with controlled conditions in a rhizotron (Goettingen Rhizolab). Requirements: Applicants should have a very good master or diploma degree in biology, forestry, environmental sciences, geosciences, soil sciences, or a related discipline. Candidates with laboratory research experience in biogeochemistry and experience with isotopic labeling are preferred. Fieldwork experience in ecological sciences is desirable. We are looking for an outstanding candidate, who is highly motivated, team orientated and willing to work precisely. Advanced command of English is required; willingness to acquire at least some basic German is desirable. This post is designed to serve in fostering young researchers and scientists and give the successful applicant the opportunity to pursue a PhD degree. The University of Goettingen is an equal opportunities employer and places particular emphasis on fostering career opportunities for women. Qualified women are therefore strongly encouraged to apply as they are underrepresented in this field. Disabled persons with equivalent aptitude will be favored. Application: Please send your application including a letter of motivation, research experience, CV, and (if available) copies of publications by June 17, 2013, to Georg-August-Universitaet Goettingen, Department of Plant Ecology and Ecosystem Research, 'Rhizosphere', Dr. I.C. Meier, Untere Karspuele 2, 37073 Goettingen, Germany, e-mail: imeier1(at)uni-goettingen.de If you have any questions, please contact Dr. I.C. Meier, phone: +49-551-39-5712, email: imeier1(at)uni-goettingen.de We request that you send us copies of your application documents, as no returns will be made. We will destroy the documents after a holding period of five months. Application documents will only be returned to you if you provide a self-addressed adequately stamped envelope.
