We are seeking a PhD or highly motivated MSc student to conduct research on the soil microbial processes that regulate nitrogen cycling retention and loss pathways in agricultural systems.
Graduate research description:
Two major environmental issues for Canadian agriculture are reduced carbon (C) inputs with annual cropping and environmental losses (nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions, nitrate leaching) associated with nitrogen (N) fertilization. Cover cropping and 4R nutrient management, including the use of nitrogen stabilizers, are the most strategic technologies that can increase soil organic carbon, by increasing annual primary production while potentially reducing N2O emissions from fertilizer use.
In collaboration with the research teams of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) located at the Harrow Research Development Centre (HRDC, Ontario) and the School of Environment Sciences at the University of Guelph (UGuelph, Ontario), the student will conduct research leading to the writing of a graduate thesis on the interactive effects of cover crops and nitrification inhibitors in agricultural systems, with a specific focus on soil microbial mechanisms.
The student project may include: investigate co-predictors (microbial, climate, soil environment) of inhibitor effectiveness within and across different agricultural regions, evaluate how microbial communities respond to different management practices, and/or develop new molecular tools for investigating microbial communities in soil. The student’s project will support the development of innovative best management practices and promote agricultural practices that build soil carbon while maintaining crop productivity and supporting Canada’s GHG reduction targets.
Location and salary:
The student will be co-supervised Dr. Lori Phillips (AAFC) and Dr. Claudia Wagner-Riddle (School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph); the majority of research activities will be conducted at HRDC and all coursework will be completed at the University of Guelph. The candidate will be awarded an annual stipend starting at $23,000 (MSC) or $27,000 (PhD).
Requirements:
Applicants for a Ph.D. must hold a M.Sc. degree in environmental microbiology, microbial ecology, soil science or a related field and be eligible to enroll in a Ph.D. program at the School of Environment Sciences at UGuelph.
To apply:
Interested candidates should submit an application online [1], which will include a CV, contact information for 2 references, and a cover letter. For additional information please E-mail Dr. Lori Phillips [2].