The Thuenen Institute of Climate-Smart Agriculture of the Johann Heinrich von Thuenen Institute, Federal Research Institute for Rural Areas, Forestry and Fisheries in Braunschweig (Germany) invites applications for a Scientist (f/m/d) in the research project “Sustainability of paludicultures with particular consideration of the matter balance (NAPALU); partial project 3: GHG exchange of a pilot site in Lower Saxony and modelling the influence of site conditions on plant growth” (full time).
The position is to be filled at the earliest opportunity and is a fixed-term position until 15th November 2025. In this project, we will investigate and optimize cultivation methods of established fen paludicultures in Bavaria and Lower Saxony and develop sustainable products. The aim is to assess long-term development of biomass yield and quality of Typha, Phragmites, Phalaris and Carex at the six pilot sites differing in nutrient availability and other relevant parameters.
The Thuenen-Institute of Climate-Smart Agriculture will investigate the influence of hydro-meteorological conditions and nutrient availability on crop growth. To do so, we will use both data collected at the pilot sites (water levels, soil properties, water quality) and crop growth modelling. Furthermore, we will measure the exchange of the greenhouse gases carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O) as well as water and nutrient fluxes for two years.
Core task of the position holder will be the adaptation of a crop growth model to paludiculture species using data both from previous projects and NAPALU. The position is based in a working group at the Thuenen Institute of Climate-Smart Agriculture conducting research on national and international level in the area of organic soils.
Tasks:
• Compilation, quality control and analysis of data on site conditions and growth of paludiculture crops • Choice and adaptation of a crop growth model suitable for paludicultures • Model calibration and application to selected pilot sites • Participation in field campaigns for sampling the pilot sites and for the manual measurement of the exchange of CO2, CH4 and N2O using chambers • Writing peer-reviewed scientific publications
Requirements:
• University degree (Univ.-Diplom or M.Sc.) in the field of environmental sciences, hydrology, environmental computer sciences, agricultural sciences or related subjects • Phd and/or peer-reviewed publications relevant to the topic are of advantage • Profound knowledge in hydrology, soil physics and/or plant physiology • Experience in (preferably process-based) modelling of environmental or ecological processes
• Profound knowledge of common computer software and of a programming language, preferably R or Python • Knowledge on peatlands and on greenhouse gas exchange of soils is beneficial • Flexibility, team spirit, high motivation, scientific curiosity and the ability to work independently • Willingness to conduct physically demanding field work during field trips over several days • Driving licence (class B) • Excellent communication and writing skills in English.
We offer an exciting job dealing with a current research topic in an nterdisciplinary project. Most time will be spent with data analysis and modelling. We support the compatibility of work and family and are the holder of the audit berufundfamilie certificate. In order to support the compatibility, the Thuenen Institute offers, among other things, flexible working time models, home office and teleworking within the scope of the official possibilities. Part-time is possible. The employment relationship is based on the provisions of the collective agreement for the public service (TVoeD). Salary payment is in accordance with pay group 13 of the TVoeD.
The Thuenen Institute promotes professional equality between women and men and therefore expressly welcomes applications from women. The Thuenen Institute is committed to inclusion. Applications from people with severe disabilities are therefore expressly welcome. They will be given special consideration in the selection process.
For further inquiries please contact Dr. Baerbel Tiemeyer (baerbel.tiemeyer@thuenen.de , 0531-596 2644) or Dr. Arndt Piayda (arndt.piayda@thuenen.de; 0531-596 2638).
Applications with the usual documentation (CV, cover letter, certificates) including the keyword “2023-005-AKNAPALU” shall be sent by email as one pdf file until 18.02.2023 to ak-bewerbungen@thuenen.de Johann Heinrich von Thuenen-Institut Thuenen-Institut fuer Agrarklimaschutz Bundesallee 65 38116 Braunschweig
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Von: Bärbel Tiemeyer baerbel.tiemeyer@thuenen.de Thuenen-Institut fuer Agrarklimaschutz Braunschweig