The soil microbiology and ecology lab at the University of Kentucky is recruiting a PhD student to join the lab in either Spring or Fall semester 2025. The successful candidate will develop a project investigating how microbial life history strategies affect soil carbon cycling in the context of land use change. The student will learn a wide variety of research techniques spanning the fields of soil science, ecosystem ecology, and metagenomics.

 Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in soil science, biology, ecology, or related field. Ability to work independently in lab and field environments. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Strong interest in soils, microbiology, and ecology. Master's degree in a related field. Lab experience in microbiology or molecular biology. Experience with statistics and/or bioinformatics. Experience with field and lab methods in soil science.

Application:

Please email a pdf file that includes (1) a cover letter highlighting the applicant's interest in the position, (2) an Academic CV (3) three references to Dr. Ernie Osburn at e.osburn@uky.edu. Review of applications will continue until the position is filled. Please contact Dr. Osburn with any questions regarding this position.