Graduate Research Assistant PhD – SUSTAINABILITY OF BIOENERGY FOREST PLANTATION SOILS Department of Soil and Crop Sciences Colorado State University We seek a highly motivated PhD student to conduct field-based research on sustainability of southern pine feedstocks for bioenergy production. The research will consist of measurement, analysis and interpretation of soil C stocks and stock changes and soil greenhouse gas emissions (CO2, N2O, CH4) as a function of site characteristics, land use history and management. Applicants will need to be willing to work and live in a rural environment in the Southeastern US for extended periods of time (up to 2 months duration). The student will work as part of a large effort including ecosystem modeling and life cycle analysis, with Drs. M. Francesca Cotrufo and Keith Paustian as joint advisors. The position requires a minimum of a BSc in soil science, ecology or closely related areas. Preferred applicants will have: 1) an MSc, 2) previous experience in field work involving soil biogeochemistry/ecology, and 3) good writing and quantitative skills. Funding is available for 3 years, with potential continuation, contingent upon performance and availability of funding. Salary level is $2,052 per month + tuition. Applicants are requested to submit a CV, transcripts, a letter of motivation and names and addresses of two references to Francesca Cotrufo at [email protected] at their earliest convenience. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled; however, to ensure full consideration applications should be submitted by October 30 2015. The anticipated starting date for the position is January 11, 2016, but is negotiable. Colorado State University is committed to providing an environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based on race, age, creed, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex, gender, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or pregnancy. Colorado State University is an equal opportunity/equal access/affirmative action employer fully committed to achieving a diverse workforce and complies with all Federal and Colorado State laws, regulations, and executive orders regarding non- discrimination and affirmative action. The Office of Equal Opportunity is located in 101 Student Services Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, Colorado State University conducts background checks. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal (felony and misdemeanor) history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the university, it is reasonable and prudent to do so. Reflecting departmental and institutional values, candidates are expected to have the ability to advance the Department’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. For any further information about the position please do not hesitate to contact: Dr. M. Francesca Cotrufo, http://www.nrel.colostate.edu/cotrufo- home.html
