PhD Fellowship in Biogeochemistry of Cultivated Wetlands – University of Copenhagen, Denmark

Embark on a transformative research journey in biogeochemistry and greenhouse gas balance of cultivated wetlands with this exceptional 3-year PhD fellowship at the Department of Geosciences and Natural Resource Management, a part of the esteemed Global Wetland Center. Funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation, the fellowship’s start date is set for 1 January 2024 or as soon as possible thereafter.

The Global Wetland Center:
The Global Wetland Center is a groundbreaking collaboration between two departments from the University of Copenhagen (Department of Geosciences and Natural Resource Management and Department of Computer Sciences), DHI A/S, and GEUS (The Geological Survey of Denmark and Greenland). This innovative initiative aims to develop wetland-based climate change mitigation strategies by integrating biogeochemical and hydrological modelling, satellite remote sensing, and Artificial Intelligence techniques. The center is funded for a six-year period (2024-2029) and promises exciting research prospects in wetland science.

Your Role:
As a PhD student, you will play a pivotal role in conducting field measurements of greenhouse gas emissions from cultivated wetlands. Working in an inspiring team that merges modeling, in-situ measurements, and Earth observation, you will be involved in quantifying the element cycling of carbon and nitrogen in farmed wetlands in Vietnam. The project entails engaging field experiments with dynamic flux chambers and subsurface oxygen measurements along spatial gradients, as well as laboratory work focusing on optimizing C storage, reducing CH4 and N2O emissions, and ensuring sustainable future food production. Additionally, you may analyze other wetlands, whether farmed or natural.

Qualifications:
Applicants should hold an MSc degree in geography, environmental sciences, ecology, or related disciplines. We seek highly motivated individuals with excellent interpersonal and communication skills. Fluency in spoken and written English is essential. Previous experiences in field-based research and analysis of large datasets will be advantageous.

PhD Programme Options:
To be eligible for the regular PhD programme, you must have completed a degree program equivalent to a Danish master’s degree (180 ECTS/3 FTE BSc + 120 ECTS/2 FTE MSc) related to the project’s subject area.

Benefits:
Join a stimulating working environment within a growing center comprising approximately 30 researchers. Collaborate with an international team of experts in ecosystem science, modeling, remote sensing, and Artificial Intelligence. Your PhD position will be hosted in the section for Geography, Øster Voldgade 10 in Copenhagen.

Supervision:
Your principal supervisor for this PhD fellowship will be Professor Bo Elberling (Dept. of Geosciences and Natural Resource Management – be@ign.ku.dk).

Terms of Employment:

• Full-time employment for a maximum of 3 years.
• Successful enrolment as a PhD student at the PhD School at the Faculty of SCIENCE, University of Copenhagen.

Responsibilities and Tasks:

• Conduct independent research under supervision.
• Complete PhD courses corresponding to approx. 30 ECTS / ½ FTE.
• Participate in active research environments, possibly including a stay at another research institution abroad.
• Engage in teaching and knowledge dissemination activities.
• Author scientific papers targeting high-impact journals.
• Defend a PhD thesis based on your research project.

Application and Assessment Procedure:

• Apply in English via the “APPLY NOW” link https://employment.ku.dk/phd/?show=159797.
• Include a motivated letter of application (max. one page), curriculum vitae, original diplomas for Bachelor of Science or Master of Science, transcript of records, and a publication list (if applicable).
• Application deadline: 20 September 2023, 23:59 GMT +2.

Interviews:
Selected candidates can anticipate interviews to be held in weeks 43-44.

Join Our Diverse Research Community:
The University of Copenhagen welcomes applicants from all backgrounds to create an inclusive research environment.

About the University of Copenhagen:
As part of the International Alliance of Research Universities (IARU) and a top-ranking European institution, the University of Copenhagen fosters research and teaching of the highest international standard. Embrace tradition and modernity, cultivate your talent, and embark on a successful academic journey in an ambitious yet informal environment.

Application Deadline: 20 September 2023 | Employment Start: 1 January 2024 | Department/Location: Department of Geosciences and Natural Resource Management