3 PhD positions in Environmental Biogeochemistry

The Environmental Chemistry Group of Prof. Laurel ThomasArrigo is offering 3 PhD positions in the Institute of Chemistry at the University of Neuchâtel (Switzerland). The research will be conducted within the SNSF Starting Grant ‘‘MiMOC: Mineral-Mediated Organic Carbon dynamics in soils and sediments: Advancing understanding from the lab to the field’’. The project involves 3 PhD students and 1 Postdoc.

Project description: Iron mineral phases in soils play a key role in global element cycles. Yet our understanding of how fluctuating soil redox conditions affects mineral stability and transformation and impact the sequestration and/or mobilization of associated organic carbon is not clear. As part of a larger team, you will contribute to the development of novel approaches for investigating iron mineral transformations and the coupled fate of mineral-associated organic carbon in redox-dynamic soil and sediment environments. You will conduct laboratory and field studies on selected iron mineral transformation processes and their influence on carbon dynamics, using state-of-the-art experimental and analytical techniques including stable isotope tracers, synchrotron techniques, and XRD.

Main duties and responsibilities: 

• Design and execute laboratory experiments
• Publish research results in international scientific journals
• Attend and present research at national and international conferences
• Participate in teaching and supervision of laboratory practical courses

We offer:

• An inclusive and supportive working environment that encourages scientific curiosity
• Opportunities to further develop skills in advanced analytical methods (e.g., synchrotron XAS, XRD)
• Opportunities to attend and present at conferences and meetings
• The chance to build a scientific network in the fields of environmental and soil biogeochemistry

Soil is a cornerstone of Earth’s ecosystems, driving the global cycling of carbon, nutrients, and trace elements, and influencing the fate of contaminants. In the Environmental Chemistry Group, we investigate the biogeochemical processes governing these cycles, with a focus on the role of soil mineral phases. Our research integrates laboratory experiments, field studies, and modeling to uncover how soils regulate nutrient availability, carbon storage, and contaminant dynamics. By advancing this understanding, we aim to better predict how terrestrial environments respond to changing environmental conditions.

The University of Neuchâtel (Switzerland) offers a stimulating research environment within a small setting. With 4’200 students, 22% of which come from abroad, the university’s small size encourages advanced training and fosters relationships between students and professors. Situated on the shores of Lake Neuchâtel between Geneva, Bern, and Zürich, Neuchâtel is a perfect place to undertake high-level research in an idyllic setting between lakes and mountains.

Your profile

• Masters degree in a relevant field (e.g., environmental science, chemistry, engineering, ecology, soil science)
• Motivated, creative, with a strong interest in environmental science research
• Good organizational and communication skills
• Knowledge in wet chemistry and lab techniques and a willingness to learn
• Experience with synchrotron techniques or XRD is an advantage
• Fluent English (written and spoken) is essential and basic French is an advantage