Job: Soil Science & Agronomy Postdoctoral Research Associate, Organic...

Table; United Kingdom; Remote; GBP 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative research opportunity awaits a passionate Soil Science and Agronomy expert eager to contribute to sustainable agriculture. As a Postdoctoral Research Associate, you will lead impactful projects focused on organic waste management and reducing fertiliser use on dairy farms. This role offers a unique chance to engage with farmers, apply your expertise in nutrient cycling, and drive real change in agricultural practices. With a commitment to trans-disciplinary research and a creative approach to problem-solving, you will help shape the future of organic farming in the UK. If you're ready to make a difference in the agricultural sector, this position is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant field with expertise in nutrient cycling and organic waste management.
• Strong analytical and communication skills are essential.

Responsibilities

• Manage and deliver results from projects on organic waste management and fertiliser reduction.
• Collaborate with farmers to co-create and trial sustainable farming strategies.

Skills

Nutrient cycling in agricultural soils

Data analysis

Communication skills

Soil C and N models

Carbon footprinting methods

Understanding of UK farming systems

Education

PhD in Soil Science or Agronomy

Tools

Statistical software for data analysis

Job description

Job: Soil Science & Agronomy Postdoctoral Research Associate, Organic Research Centre, Remote, UK

Date

Advertiser's description (via the Organic Research Centre):

Are you an experienced researcher with an interest in organic and agroecological systems? Are you committed to innovative, inclusive and trans-disciplinary research approaches based on systems thinking? Are you a pragmatic, creative and forward-thinking scientist ready to lead participatory research and experimentation with real farms and businesses? Then, this might be the opportunity for you.

ORC seeks to appoint a Soil Science and Agronomy Post-Doctoral Research Associate (PDRA) on a 2-year fixed term contract with the possibility of extension. The role will be responsible for the timely management and delivery of results from two newly funded projects at the Organic Research Centre.

The first of these projects is focused on the development of novel organic waste management strategies to build healthy soils and healthy crops. The PDRA will work with a network of composting practitioners to test the impacts of their composting methods on a range of agronomic, ecological and economic parameters. Evidence will be used to produce advice and guidance on how to best manage organic materials for the best agronomic, environmental and economic outcomes.

The second project is focused on strategies to reduce the use of N fertilisers on intensively managed grass on dairy farms. Strategies will be co-created with the dairy farmers and trialled on farms.

Both projects require expertise in nutrient cycling in agricultural soils, an understanding of how organic wastes and fertilisers are managed and used on UK farms. Experience with soil C and N models is desirable, as is an understanding of the use of carbon footprinting methods on UK farms. Strong data analysis and communication skills are essential. Applicants need to be familiar with UK farming systems and comfortable working in agricultural environments.