Postdoc on biogeochemical modeling of deep-sea sponges (3 years) 1fte

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The Department of Earth Sciences at Utrecht University is now looking for highly-motivated, high-potential applicant to fill a postdoc position on biogeochemical modeling of deep-sea sponges.

In this a 3-year postdoctoral position we aim to develop and explore models for biogeochemical cycling by sponges in the ocean. Sponges are ecosystem engineers that mediate energy and matter transfer in deep-sea food webs and that host various microbes involved in biogeochemical cycles. In the context of SponGES, the postdoc will develop models to quantify the role of sponges in carbon, nitrogen and silicon cycling and to elucidate the functioning of deep-sea food webs including sponges.

Qualifications

We are looking for a highly motivated postdoc with a PhD. You have excellent understanding of marine ecosystems, biogeochemistry, environmental sciences or a related field. You should have experience with mathematical modeling. Moreover you have the ability to work in a multidisciplinary, international environment. Good English oral and writing skills are essential.

Terms of employment

We offer a temporary position as postdoc for three years (starting this summer/fall). Employment conditions are based on the Collective Labour Agreement of the Dutch Universities. The gross monthly salary is dependent on qualifications and experience and starts between € 2,920.- and € 3,997.-. The salary is supplemented by a holiday allowance of 8% per year and a year-end bonus of 8.3%. We also offer a pension scheme and flexible employment conditions.

Facilities for sports and child care are available on our main campus (where the Department of Earth Sciences is situated), which is located only 15 minutes away from the historical city centre of Utrecht.

About the organisation

The Utrecht Faculty of Geosciences offers education and research concerning the geosphere, biosphere, atmosphere and hydrosphere. With a population of 2600 students (BSc and MSc) and 600 staff, the Faculty is a strong and challenging organisation. The Faculty is organised in four Departments: Innovation, Environmental & Energy Sciences, Earth Sciences, Physical Geography, and Human Geography & Spatial Planning.

The Department of Earth Sciences conducts teaching and research across the full range of the solid Earth and environmental Earth sciences, with activities in almost all areas of geology, geochemistry, geophysics, biogeology and hydrogeology. The department hosts a highly international group of more than 100 PhD students and postdoctoral researchers and houses a wide variety of world-class laboratories.

Additional information

Informal enquiries may be sent to Prof. dr. Jack Middelburg, j.b.m.middelburg@uu.nl.

How to apply

To apply, please follow this link and the guidelines mentioned there. The application deadline is July 31, 2016. Evaluations and interviews are planned soon thereafter. We seek to initiate the position as soon as possible and not later than November 1, 2016. Online screening may be part of the selection. Commercial response to this ad is not appreciated.