At a Glance
- Tasks: Investigate soil NOx emissions and improve biogeochemical models through experiments and data analysis.
- Company: University of York, a leading institution with a supportive and inclusive environment.
- Benefits: Full-time position with opportunities for professional growth and collaboration.
- Other info: Collaborative project involving multiple research groups for dynamic learning experiences.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on environmental challenges while working with top experts in the field.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant field, experience with biogeochemical models, and strong programming skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ 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: Atmospheric Sciences (AS), Biogeosciences (BG), Soil System Sciences (SSS)
Type: Full time
Level: Entry level
Preferred education: PhD
Posted: 31 August 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
The University of York offers an exceptional working environment for the Postdoctoral Research Associate in Soil Microbial Processes, characterised by a commitment to inclusivity and professional development. With its prestigious Athena SWAN Gold Award, the university fosters a collaborative culture that encourages innovation and interdisciplinary research, providing ample opportunities for growth and engagement with leading experts in the field. Located in the vibrant city of York, employees benefit from a supportive community and access to cutting-edge facilities, making it an ideal place for meaningful and impactful work.
Contact Details:
European Geosciences Union Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Associate in Soil Microbial Processes
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