Position in carbon and nutrient dynamics in South Patagonian bogs

South Patagonia can serve as a model region for the investigation of pristine temperate bog ecosystems and their response to environmental conditions and experimental manipulation. In Patagonia bogs, can be dominated either by cushion-building vascular plants or by Sphagnum mosses. The DFG funded project CANDY bog (“Carbon, water and nutrient dynamics in vascular plant- vs. Sphagnum-dominated bog ecosystems in southern Patagonia”) aims to disentangle the impact of vascular plants and peat mosses on carbon and nutrient dynamics in peat bogs of Tierra del Fuego. Argentinean partners and a second project scientist (Ph.D. student) supervised by Prof. Lars Kutzbach at Hamburg University are involved.

The offered position will address (1) carbon sequestration rates of bogs either dominated by Sphagnum or cushion building plants at various time scales, (2) the analysis of CH4 fluxes, DOC and DIC losses, and C balances, and (3) the effects of experimental shading, addition of 15N-labeled nitrogen and liming on Sphagnum and vascular plant performance, litter decomposition and nitrogen dynamics.
The position is open to Ph.D. or Postdoc candidates. Applicants hold a Masters degree in a relevant field of research, including environmental science, geology, ecology, or soil science. Previous experience in wetland research, analytical techniques and good computing skills are advantageous. The willingness to travel and work longer periods in Patagonia is a precondition. Good knowledge of the English language is expected, knowledge of the Spanish language is a strong asset. When filled by a Ph.D. candidate, the position is offered for three years and at a pay grade of 65 % TVL 13 of German state-regulated public service salary scale (amounting to approximately € 33,000 per year gross salary). In the case of a Postdoc position, pay grade and duration of the contract may differ depending on the financial resources available.

Closing date for applications is 15/05/2013. The positions will be available as of 01/09/2013 but a later begin can be accommodated.

In the case of similar qualification, competence and specific achievements, women will be considered on preferential terms within the framework of the legal possibilities. Disabled persons with equivalent aptitude will be favoured. Applicants should send a brief letter of motivation, a CV, e-mail addresses of two potential academic referees, and documentation of transcripts of records or university certificates. Please send your application electronically as a single pdf containing the documents described above to till.kleinebecker@uni-muenster.de and christian.blodau@uni-muenster.de (Dr. Till Kleinebecker, Working Group Ecosystem Research and Prof. Christian Blodau, Working Group Hydrology; Institute of Landscape Ecology, University of Münster).