PhD Position – Geomorphic constraints for the restoration of tidal ecosystems

The Department of Biology in the Faculty of Sciences at the University of Antwerp is looking for a doctoral researcher (m/f).

Candidate: Masters degree in Geography, Geology, Biology, or Bio-engineering.

Experience with or interest in geomorphology of tidal landscapes.

Tasks: Research on the role of geomorphic processes (tidal currents, channel erosion, sedimentation) for the restoration of tidal ecosystems (tidal marshes, tidal flats).

This project is related to the construction of controlled inundation areas along the Schelde estuary (Belgium).

The research includes field work, laboratory analyses, data processing, modelling, and publication in scientific journals. In the end the researcher will prepare a PhD thesis on this subject.

Duration: 1 year. Extension to 4 years is possible, after positive evaluation.

Start: 1 October 2006. Statute: Bijzonder Academisch Personeel (full time) – DeHousse mandate.

Conditions: No previous employment on a FWO- or IWT-grant, maximum 12 months of previous employment at the University of Antwerp.

Minimum degree distinction (Belgian system) or equivalent.

Applying: Send your letter of motivation and C.V. before 1 September 2006 to:

Prof dr Stijn Temmerman
University of Antwerpen Departement of Biology
Universiteitsplein 1, B-2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
Phone: +32 3 820 27 58
E-mail: stijn.temmerman@ua.ac.be 
For more information on the research project, contact Prof. dr. Stijn Temmerman  

PhD Position on Mesoscale Atmospheric Inverse Modelling in Carbon Cycle Research

The duration is initially two years, with possibility for extension. Carbon cycle research is one of the central activities at the Biogeochemical Systems Department, and a major element of this research is focused on performing and utilizing high-precision measurements of greenhouse gases in form of long-term monitoring networks as well as intensive measurement campaigns.

Aim of the study is the retrieval of biosphere-atmosphere exchange fluxes of CO2 and related trace gases from atmospheric measurements and a variety of other data sources, including satellite measurements.

The successful candidate will adapt and use a combination of a mesoscale atmospheric weather prediction model, an offline atmospheric transport model, and a biosphere-atmosphere flux model driven by satellite data.

Target is the quantification of regional scale carbon budgets from in-situ measurements in the continental atmospheric boundary layer including tall tower observatories and aircraft measurements such as made within the CarboEurope project.

Access to high-performance computing facilities will be provided. Good programming skills, the ability to work in a team, communication skills with good written and spoken English are required. Basic knowledge of atmospheric physics are desired. Applicants are required to have a completed university education (MSc) in physical science, meteorology, physical geography or another appropriate field. 

The institute offers an international, highly creative and dynamic work environment at one of the European key institutions for biogeochemical cycle studies. The training and qualification of the PhD student is regarded as an important goal within the group and the candidate is likely to achieve a high attractiveness in diverse professional fields through the methodological competence gained during the anticipated PhD-project.

Jena is an attractive, lively town with a strong university, several high-tech companies, a beautiful hilly landscape and fast train connections to Metropolitan Areas like 2½ hours to Berlin.

Salary follows the rules of the German public service or is granted as scholarship on a case basis. The Max-Plank-Society seeks to increase the number of female scientists and encourages them to apply. Handicapped persons with comparable qualifications receive preferential status.

To apply, please send your application with your motivations and interests in this position, together with a curriculum vitae, and the contact details of 2 academic referees to Ulrike Schleier (MPI-BGC, Germany) by e-mail: uschleier@bgc-jena.mpg.de .

The deadline for application is September 1, 2006, with a start of the position on November 1, 2006. For further technical information please contact Christoph Gerbig by e-mail: cgerbig@bgc-jena.mpg.de