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Postdoctoral Research Scholar in Soil Carbon Dynamics and Climate Feedback

North Carolina State University
Commensurate with Experience
United States, North Carolina, Raleigh
Feb 10, 2025
Position Information


Posting Number PG191432PD
Position Number 00111327
Position Type Post Doc
FLSA Exempt
Departmental Information


Department ID 110801 - Plant & Microbial Biology
Department 110801 - Plant & Microbial Biology
Job City & State Raleigh, NC
Position Overview


Essential Job Duties
We are seeking a highly motivated and qualified Postdoctoral Research Scholar to contribute to a cutting-edge project funded by the Department of Energy ( DOE). The project investigates the temperature sensitivity of carbon loss from soils under extreme climatic conditions, focusing on cool-climate (arctic and boreal) and warm-climate (tropical) ecosystems. This interdisciplinary research aims to advance our understanding of soil C-climate feedback and improve predictive modeling frameworks for soil and ecosystem responses to global warming.

The successful candidate will join a collaborative research team from NC State University, University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science, University of Toledo, USDA Forest Service (International Institute of Tropical Forestry), USGS (Southwest Biological Science Center), Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Synthesize soil respiration data from field (and lab) warming experiments conducted across Arctic, Boreal, and Tropical ecosystems.
  • Investigate and synthesize mechanisms for temperature sensitivity of soil organic matter decomposition under warming.
  • Apply machine learning algorithms to integrate soil biophysical, microbial, and geochemical data for soil C-climate feedback analyses.
  • Conduct data-model assimilation using biogeochemical models such as DAMM, MEND, and AquaMEND to evaluate direct and indirect effects of temperature on soil respiration.
  • Utilize AI-informed modeling frameworks to improve predictions of soil respiration under future warming scenarios.
  • Collaborate with project team members to develop a comprehensive database template and associated metadata for soil warming experiments.
  • Publish research findings in high-impact scientific journals and present at conferences


The initial appointment is for 1-year, with the potential for renewal for an additional year based on avaliable funding.
Appointment Details/Benefits:

  • Competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience.
  • Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities.
  • Access to state-of-the-art research facilities and computational resources.

Other Work/Responsibilities
Other duties as assigned.
Requirements and Preferences


Work Schedule Monday - Friday, 8am - 5pm (and as research requires)
Department Required Skills

  • A Ph.D. in Soil Science, Earth System Science, biogeochemistry, Environmental Science, Ecology, or a related field by the start date.
  • Experience in analyzing soil carbon dynamics and biogeochemical processes.
  • Proficiency in programming languages (R, Python, or C++) for data analysis and modeling.
  • Familiarity with machine learning techniques and/or biogeochemical modeling frameworks.
  • Demonstrated ability to publish scientific research in peer-reviewed journals.
  • Strong communication skills and a collaborative mindset.

Preferred Years Experience, Skills, Training, Education

  • Knowledge of temperature sensitivity of soil carbon loss.
  • Experience with data assimilation and machine learning models.
  • Experience with synthesis studies and warming experiments.

Required License or Certification
n/a
Valid NC Driver's License required? No
Commercial Driver's License Required? No
Recruitment Details


Anticipated Hiring Range Commensurate with Experience
If you anticipate multiple hires from this search, please indicate how many
Recruitment Dates


Job Open Date 02/10/2025
Applicant Information


Quick Link https://jobs.ncsu.edu/postings/214933
AA/EEO
NC State University is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as an individual with a disability, or status as a protected veteran. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-515-3148 to speak with a representative at the Office of Equal Opportunity.

If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu.

Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.

NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.
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