Position: A research associate is available in the Soil Health and Ecosystem Ecology Lab directed by Dr. Christine Sprunger at Michigan State University’s Kellogg Biological Station. The postdoc will be involved in projects within the KBS Long-Term Ecological Research Trial, the KBS Long-Term Agroecosystem Trial, and the Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center. The central focus of this postdoctoral position is to assess how agricultural management influences soil food webs and soil health. We are especially interested in candidates that have backgrounds in nematology and/or microbial ecology. The postdoctoral researcher will be responsible for conducting field sampling, laboratory assays and statistical analyses. The postdoctoral researcher will also be expected to generate publications and presentations based on key findings.
Start Date and Salary: The postdoctoral appointment is for one year, with extension contingent on grant renewal and/or securing external funds. Start date is January 1st, 2025. The position includes a competitive salary and benefits.
The Soil Health and Ecosystem Ecology Lab (www.sprungerlab.com ): The successful candidate will have the opportunity to engage in a wide range of projects surrounding soil health, nematology, global change biology, and socio-ecological research involving farmer collaborations and soil health outreach. Our lab is a supportive environment that fosters opportunities for members to gain new skillsets in nematology and soil ecology. We also pride ourselves as being an inclusive lab open to all individuals regardless of cultural backgrounds, race, orientation, or ethnicity.
Postdoctoral development: KBS has a vibrant postdoctoral community and is committed to postdoctoral career development and success. The successful candidate will have professional development opportunities in the form of teaching, grant writing, public communication, and collaborative writing for peer review publications. There will also be ample opportunities to mentor undergraduates through the NSF funded REU program at KBS. Dr. Sprunger will also work closely with the successful candidate to define career goals and to craft project outputs to help meet those defined goals.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.
Required Degree
Doctorate -Microbial ecology, nematology, biogeochemistry, soil health
Minimum Requirements
PhD in appropriate field, and strong oral and written communication skills
Desired Qualifications
Additional desired qualifications include:Strong quantitative skillset, desire to work as a team, and interest in gaining skills in soil health and soil ecology.
Required Application Materials
Please submit:
1) CV
2) Cover Letter
3) 3 peer reviewed published papers
