Position Website and Application Information
The Yang Lab is broadly interested in how human activities are changing how natural and managed ecosystems function and how ecosystem responses to global change can feedback to drive or slow future global change. Our research is in terrestrial biogeochemistry and ecosystem ecology with a focus on determining process rates and drivers of chemical transformations in the environment. We are particularly interested in the controls on greenhouse gas emissions, the effects of anthropogenic nitrogen inputs on soil nitrogen retention and loss, the effects of plant community composition shifts on soil nitrogen and carbon dynamics, and the coupling of biogeochemical cycles beyond carbon and nitrogen. An important component of our research is the development of novel methodological approaches using tracer and natural abundance stable isotope techniques, in particular to quantify soil dinitrogen emissions and gross fluxes of greenhouse gases. A current focus of our research program is utilizing plant-microbe interactions, such as root exudation of biological nitrification inhibition compounds, to mitigate agroecosystem nutrient losses through soil leaching of nitrate and emissions of nitrous oxide, an important greenhouse gas.
Job Summary
Support lab and field activities focusing on carbon and nitrogen biogeochemistry in agricultural systems.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Processing and analyzing plant, soil, gas, and water samples in the laboratory (40%)
- Installing and maintaining gas analyzers, autochambers, and soil sensors in the field (20%)
- Collecting plant, soil, gas, and water samples from field sites (15%)
- Organizing, compiling, and quality checking datasets (10%)
- Assisting with stable isotope tracer experiments and laboratory assays for carbon and nitrogen cycling processes (5%)
- Supervising undergraduate students assisting with this project, including training, assigning work, and tracking work performance and deliverables (5%)
- Research sites are located in Central Illinois, so this position will require frequent local travel for field sampling and field equipment maintenance (5%)
Minimum Qualifications
A bachelor’s degree in biology, environmental science, chemistry, soil science, or related field. Alternate degree fields will be considered/accepted depending on depth and breadth of experience and skills as related to this position. Research experience in the laboratory and in the field related to biogeochemistry or related disciplines (e.g., above and belowground plant sampling, trace gas flux measurements, soil sampling, wet chemistry, gas chromatography).
Preferred Qualifications
Experience running analytical instrumentation of any kind, including for soil, water and gas samples (i.e., SmartChem discrete autoanalyzer, gas chromatograph, isotope ratio mass spectrometer). Experience with wet chemistry, such as conducting laboratory assays for soil carbon and nitrogen cycling processes or following protocols in college-level lab courses. Experience with field-deployed instrumentation (e.g., wiring soil sensors to dataloggers, autochambers for soil-atmosphere gas flux measurements, Licor infrared gas analyzers).
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- A valid driver's license and ability to travel regularly to research sites in Central Illinois (i.e., up to 30 minute drive away from campus). Ability to work long days in the field under hot and humid conditions. Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds for short durations. Strong organizational skills. Basic computer skills (MS Word, Excel). Ability to work in a large collaborative team environment. Enthusiasm for learning new skills.
Appointment Information
This is a 100% full-time Academic Professional position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after closing date. Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity. The salary range starts at $40,000.
