Research Associate: Soil NOx Emissions Modeling & Fieldwork

Research Associate: Soil NOx Emissions Modeling & Fieldwork

Full-Time 31500 - 38500 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Technical University of Denmark

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Investigate soil NOx emissions through experiments and modelling to improve environmental understanding.
  • Company: Join the renowned Chemistry department at the University of York, committed to a supportive work culture.
  • Benefits: Gain valuable research experience, collaborate with experts, and contribute to impactful environmental projects.
  • Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a collaborative, interdisciplinary team.
  • Why this job: Make a difference in climate science while developing your skills in a dynamic research environment.
  • Qualifications: Experience with biogeochemical models and strong programming skills are essential.

The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.

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 modelling 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.

About Us: York’s Chemistry department is internationally renowned and holds an Athena SWAN Gold Award. We are committed to a supportive, egalitarian, and family-friendly working environment. For more information, visit our website.

Details: Duration: 1st October 2026 – 31st July 2029 (extension possible). Interview Date: TBC Informal Enquiries: Contact Jenny Hudson-bell at jenny.hudson-bell@york.ac.uk.

Research Associate: Soil NOx Emissions Modeling & Fieldwork employer: Technical University of Denmark

The University is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With the flexibility of hybrid working and generous leave entitlements, including 36 days off, staff are encouraged to maintain a healthy work-life balance while contributing to the academic success of students in the Faculty of History.

Technical University of Denmark

Contact Details:

Technical University of Denmark Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Research Associate: Soil NOx Emissions Modeling & Fieldwork

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We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate: Soil NOx Emissions Modeling & Fieldwork

Biogeochemical Modelling
Atmospheric Chemistry
Advanced Computer Programming
Field Experimentation
Laboratory Experimentation
Data Analysis
Model Parameterisation

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Off Your Technical Skills:When applying for a role in environmental engineering tech, make sure to highlight your technical skills like CAD software proficiency, data analysis, or modelling techniques. These are essential for the job and should stand out in your CV and cover letter, showing how you can contribute to projects at Technical University of Denmark.

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Tailor Your Application to the Role:Don't just send a generic CV and cover letter. Make sure to tailor your application to the specific role of Research Associate: Soil NOx Emissions Modeling & Fieldwork at Technical University of Denmark. Highlight experiences that align directly with the job description and give concrete examples of your work to demonstrate that you’re the right fit for a full-time position.

Include Relevant Certifications:If you have certifications related to environmental engineering or technology, like LEED Accreditation or any relevant software certifications, make sure to mention them. These qualifications can boost your application and show that you’re serious about your professional development in this competitive field.

How to prepare for a job interview at Technical University of Denmark

Brush Up on Environmental Regulations

Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest environmental regulations and standards. In an environmental engineering tech role at Technical University of Denmark, you might be asked specific questions about compliance measures, so understanding these will definitely give you an edge.

Showcase Your Technical Skills

Prepare to demonstrate your proficiency with relevant tools and software, such as AutoCAD or GIS. You might be given a practical problem to solve during the interview, so it’s a great idea to brush up on these skills and perhaps even bring a portfolio of your projects to showcase your technical prowess.

Highlight Your Passion for Sustainability

In a full-time role, employers are looking for commitment and enthusiasm. Share your experiences, studies, or projects that reflect your passion for environmental sustainability. This will show Technical University of Denmark that you're not just qualified but genuinely invested in the field.

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