Post Doctoral Research Scholar - Modeling Soil Carbon and GHG Emissions from Vegetable Systems

North Carolina State University; Raleigh (NC); On-site; USD 50,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to advance the understanding of soil carbon dynamics and greenhouse gas emissions in vegetable farming. This role involves utilizing advanced modeling tools and empirical data to assess agricultural practices' impacts on sustainability. The researcher will collaborate with an interdisciplinary team and contribute to significant research initiatives aimed at enhancing conservation practices. This opportunity not only offers a chance to make a real impact but also provides a supportive environment for professional growth and development.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. required in relevant fields such as Soil Science or Ecology.
• Strong background in biogeochemical modeling and soil carbon dynamics.

Responsibilities

• Model soil carbon dynamics and GHG emissions for vegetable farms.
• Integrate empirical data with process-based models for sustainability.

Skills

Biogeochemical Modeling

Soil Carbon Dynamics

GHG Flux Estimation

Programming (Python, R, C++)

Data Analysis

Communication Skills

Education

Ph.D. in Soil Science or related field

Tools

DayCent

COMET-Farm

GIS Applications

Job description

Position Information

Posting Number	PG191444PD
Position Number	00111352
Position Type	Post Doc
FLSA	Exempt

Departmental Information

Department ID	110801 - Plant & Microbial Biology
Department	110801 - Plant & Microbial Biology
Job City & State	Raleigh, NC

Position Overview

Essential Job Duties

The Department of Plant and Microbial Biology supports teaching, research, and extension programs in fundamental plant biology and microbiology. The department focuses on both basic and applied research, teaching undergraduate and graduate courses, mentoring students, and conducting outreach at state and national levels. We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to model soil carbon dynamics and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from vegetable farms in the Southern Piedmont region. The researcher will use process-based models such as DayCent and tools like COMET-Farm to assess the impact of various agricultural management practices on soil sustainability and climate mitigation. The position involves integrating empirical field data-including soil health indicators, eddy covariance tower measurements, soil chambers, weather station data, and multispectral remote sensing data-with process-based models. Historical data from organic and conventional vegetable growers will also be utilized. This postdoctoral position is part of a larger initiative focused on enhancing conservation practices through predictive modeling and field-based validation. The researcher will meet regularly with Dr. Debjani Sihi for guidance on grant writing, manuscript preparation, and mentoring. Key Responsibilities Apply and refine the DayCent model to simulate soil carbon sequestration and GHG emissions under various vegetable farming systems in the Southern Piedmont. Utilize tools such as COMET-Farm to estimate carbon footprints and evaluate mitigation strategies. Integrate field data on soil carbon, soil health, and GHG emissions to improve model accuracy. Conduct multi-site synthesis and spatial modeling to assess regional trends in soil health and climate-smart practices. Collaborate with an interdisciplinary team of soil scientists, agronomists, economists, and social scientists to develop actionable insights. Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present results at conferences and field days. Initial appointment of one year, with a potential extension of up to four years based on performance and funding availability You Belong Here! At NC State, our goal is for all employees to reach their fullest potential at work. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Proposition and learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone.

Other Work/Responsibilities

Requirements and Preferences

n/a

Work Schedule	Monday - Friday, 8 am - 5 pm
Department Required Skills	Ph.D. in Soil Science, Agronomy, Environmental Science, Ecosystem Science, Ecology, or a related field. Strong background in biogeochemical modeling, soil carbon dynamics, or GHG flux estimation. Experience using DayCent or similar soil carbon and GHG modeling tools. Proficiency in programming and data analysis (e.g., Python, R, C++, GIS applications). Experience with big data analytics and high-performance/cloud computing. Familiarity with sustainable agriculture, soil health indicators, and climate-smart farming practices. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research setting.
Preferred Years Experience, Skills, Training, Education	Experience with high-performance computing, parallel computing, and APIs. Strong track record in biogeochemical and agronomic (or crop) modeling. Experience working with big data collected across multiple temporal (sub-daily to annual) and spatial (farm to region) scales from field experiments. Knowledge of soil health indicators, eddy covariance measurements, and soil sensors. Experience with remote sensing, IoT technologies, and spatial modeling techniques/GIS methods. Demonstrated record of publishing in peer-reviewed journals.
Required License or Certification
Valid NC Driver's License required?	No
Commercial Driver's License Required?	No

Recruitment Details

Anticipated Hiring Range	commensurate with experience (up to $60,000)
If you anticipate multiple hires from this search, please indicate how many

Recruitment Dates

Job Open Date	03/04/2025

Applicant Information

NC State University is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as an individual with a disability, or status as a protected veteran. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-515-3148 to speak with a representative at the Office of Equal Opportunity.

If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at [phone] or [e-mail].

Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.

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Quick Link	https://jobs.ncsu.edu/postings/215746
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