The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences is seeking a postdoctoral research associate to participate in a USDA NIFA funded study examining phosphorus loss from tile-drained agricultural fields and watersheds in east-central Illinois. The focus of the study is to: 1) identify the forms of colloidal P (CP) and particulate P (PP) in tile and river water; 2) understand how soil P pools in fields control dissolved reactive P (DRP), CP, and PP losses; and 3) assess the contribution of various P sources, including tiles, surface runoff, and riverine sources to overall watershed export of P. This research builds on our more than 20 years of DRP and total P tile and river measurements in the Embarras River watershed. We plan to apply cutting edge chemical techniques including zetasizer (surface charge properties), dynamic light scattering (particle size distribution), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (morphology, structure, and elemental distribution with P), synchrotron based XRD (characterization of amorphous or crystalline materials), and microfocused X-ray microprobe spectroscopy (solid state P speciation) to better understand and determine sources and transport. In addition to ISCO and grab sampling of tile and river water, we will install a continuous DRP sensor in the watershed outlet.
The postdoctoral associate will be responsible for the day-to-day sampling in the project, including the collection of water and soil samples as needed. Most of the work will focus on using the latest chemical techniques to better understand P chemistry, and publishing the results in high quality journals.
Qualifications: A Ph.D. in soil science, agronomy, aquatic chemistry, or related field with a strong chemical or biogeochemical background is required. Experience with phosphorus in agricultural systems and tile drainage is desired. Position is initially available for one year, with renewal for a second year based on performance. A Ph.D. must be completed before appointment.
Application Deadline: July 15, 2016 (position will remain open until filled). By email send a cover letter describing your interest in and qualifications for the position, CV, a few reprints of your work, and the names and contact information for 3 references.
Send to:
Drs. Yuji Arai yarai@illinois.edu and Mark David mbdavid@illinois.edu
University of Illinois
Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences
W503 Turner Hall
1102 S. Goodwin Av.
Urbana, IL 61801
For more information about past work in this area or either of our labs:
http://yarai7.wix.com/arailab
http://biogeochemistry.nres.illinois.edu/Biogeochem_lab/index.htm
