At a Glance
- Tasks: Investigate soil NOx emissions and improve biogeochemical models through experiments and data analysis.
- Company: Join the University of York, a leading institution with a supportive and inclusive culture.
- Benefits: Engage in cutting-edge research with opportunities for professional growth and collaboration.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with access to state-of-the-art laboratories and resources.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on environmental challenges while working with top experts in the field.
- Qualifications: PhD required; experience in biogeochemistry or atmospheric chemistry and programming skills preferred.
The predicted salary is between 29250 - 35750 £ per year.
The University of York’s Chemistry department is internationally renowned for its research and holds an Athena SWAN Gold Award. We are committed to a supportive, egalitarian, and family-friendly working environment.
Location: York, United Kingdom
Sector: Academic
Type: Full time
Level: Entry level
Salary: Open
Preferred Education: PhD
Application deadline: 31 August 2026
Posted: 19 June 2026
Nitrogen oxides (NOx = NO + NO2) play a major role in the atmospheric chemistry controlling climate and air pollution. Understanding NOx emissions both now and into the future is therefore essential if we are to tackle major environmental challenges. Although atmospheric NOx emissions are currently dominated by anthropogenic combustion, recent work has suggested heavily fertilised agricultural soils are likely a significantly underestimated source. This project brings together experts in biogeochemistry and atmospheric chemistry to address this key uncertainty, through the combination of experiments and modeling to develop a process-based model parameterisation for agricultural soil NOx emissions.
Soil NOx emissions vary nonlinearly with agricultural management, soil conditions, and meteorology, but current models fail to capture observed NOx emission variability. This project aims to use the most comprehensive dataset to date, including the use of NOx isotopic signatures of biogeochemical processes, to challenge and improve our process-based understanding of soil nitrification and denitrification.
The Successful Candidate Will:
- Use existing biogeochemical models and datasets to investigate NOx emission controls and identify model failures.
- Direct targeted field and laboratory scale experiments at the Warwick Crop Centre to provide data capable of improving model representations.
- Iteratively test and refine model process representations to ultimately support global emission inventories and environmental policy.
Requirements:
Candidates should have experience with biogeochemical or atmospheric chemistry models and possess advanced computer programming skills. The post will be located in the Wolfson Atmospheric Chemistry Laboratories at the University of York, and will work closely with biogeochemists in the Environmental Process Laboratory at the University of Warwick. The highly interdisciplinary and collaborative nature of this project means experience of working across multiple research groups is highly desirable, and the ability to engage with biogeochemists and interpret experimental soil datasets would be an advantage.
Postdoctoral Research Associate in Soil Microbial Processes employer: European Geosciences Union (EGU)
The University of York is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and egalitarian work environment that prioritises family-friendly policies. With its prestigious Athena SWAN Gold Award and commitment to interdisciplinary research, employees benefit from collaborative opportunities and professional growth in a vibrant academic setting. Located in the historic city of York, staff enjoy a rich cultural experience alongside their meaningful contributions to environmental science.
Contact Details:
European Geosciences Union (EGU) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Associate in Soil Microbial Processes
✨Get Involved in Research Communities
Dive headfirst into the scientific research world by joining relevant communities and forums. Engage in discussions, share your insights, and even attend conferences or seminars in your field. This not only boosts your visibility but can also lead to potential job opportunities—don't forget to connect with like-minded folks!
✨Show Off Your Research Projects
Have you worked on any cool research projects? Make it easy for potential employers to see your work by creating a portfolio or a personal website. This way, when you apply for roles like the one at European Geosciences Union (EGU), you can point them to your projects and publications, showcasing your expertise directly.
✨Utilise Professional Networks
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✨Keep Your Eyes on Openings & Apply Directly
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We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Associate in Soil Microbial Processes
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Research Experience:When applying for a full-time role in scientific research, make sure to emphasise your research experience prominently in your CV. Share specific projects you’ve worked on, the methodologies you used, and any significant findings. If you’ve published papers or presented at conferences, definitely include that too – it shows you’re on it in the academic world!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Research Area:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the specific area of research at European Geosciences Union (EGU). Mention relevant experiences that align with the organisation’s goals or projects. This shows that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position – plus, it helps us see how you’d fit into the team dynamics.
Showcase Your Data Analysis Skills:In scientific research, data analysis skills are a big deal! Make sure to detail any relevant analytical tools or software you’re familiar with, like R, Python, or statistical packages. Employers are keen to know you can handle the data-heavy elements of the role, so add specific examples where you’ve used these skills effectively.
Discuss Your Future Research Goals:In your motivation section, it’s a great idea to talk about your future research goals and how they align with the work being done at European Geosciences Union (EGU). This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but rather a chance to contribute meaningfully to the field. We love to see applicants who are forward-thinking and enthusiastic about their research journey!
How to prepare for a job interview at European Geosciences Union (EGU)
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
In scientific research, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to design and conduct experiments. Come armed with examples of past projects where you've developed hypotheses, collected data, and analysed results. Be ready to discuss any specific methodologies or tools you’ve used, like PCR techniques or statistical software.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions specific to your field. Make sure you're up to speed with recent advancements in scientific research related to the role at European Geosciences Union (EGU). Brush up on concepts relevant to their projects and be prepared to discuss how you would approach a specific research problem or challenge they might face.
✨Know Your Publications
If you've authored or co-authored any papers, be prepared to discuss them! Highlighting your contributions to published research can really set you apart. It shows not only your expertise but also your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, which is key in scientific research roles.
✨Exhibit Your Team Spirit
In full-time roles, collaboration is often at the heart of scientific research. Prepare examples that show how you've successfully worked in teams, dealt with conflicts, or contributed to group projects. We want to know how you can work effectively with the team at European Geosciences Union (EGU) to drive research projects forward.
