[ES_JOBS_NET] Postdoc in Atmosphere Microbial Habitability Modelling, London, UK

[James Bradley]

Postdoctoral Research Associate in Atmosphere Microbial Habitability
Modelling

The Earth Surface Science group at Queen Mary University of London (QMUL)
are seeking a 24-month postdoc to work on a Human Frontier Science Project
(HFSP) funded project ‘The atmosphere: a living, breathing ecosystem?’. The
project is a collaboration between QMUL’s School of Geography, the
University of Guelph (Canada), Monash University (Australia) and Arizona
State University (USA). The team aim to resolve the composition,
capabilities, and activities of atmospheric microbes at a global scale,
with the overall goal to distinguish whether the atmosphere exhibits
structure and microbial activity characteristic of a true ecosystem, or if
it is simply a passive dispersal medium for microorganisms.

The PDRA will develop theoretical modelling approaches (including
bioenergetics calculations, power-based ecosystem modelling) to investigate
the potential habitability and ecological structure and function of
microbial communities in the atmosphere. The initial focus for the PDRA is
to model the habitability and ecological processes occurring in Earth's
atmosphere, and then to translate the tools and knowledge generated to the
atmosphere of other planetary bodies or exoplanets.

The postdoc will be embedded within a larger team of microbiologists,
geochemists, engineers and astrobiologists (in the UK, Canada, the US and
Australia) who are working collaboratively, via our recent Human Frontier
Science Program award, to understand the atmosphere is as a 'living,
breathing ecosystem'. Aside from the main modelling duties, the PDRA will
have the opportunity to participate in our global sampling campaign and is
expected to interact frequently with other members of the larger team to
assist with the generation and interpretation of biological, geochemical,
and geophysical data (and its integration into numerical models), and
contribute towards the team's outputs and dissemination activities.

The PDRA will develop, implement and apply microbial bioenergetics
ecosystem modelling tools to study the atmosphere, including its resident
microorganisms and its overall habitability.
Modelling will focus on:
i) Connecting the physicochemical characteristics of the atmosphere with
its (potentially) resident microorganisms.
ii) Determining plausible rates of energy-generating and energy-requiring
reactions for atmosphere dwelling microorganisms and assess catabolic and
anabolic activity.
iii) Combining various (biological, geochemical and geophysical) datasets
to assess the survival and potential growth of atmosphere-dwelling
microorganisms (using data generated by the project, as well as existing
data).
iv) Assessing habitability of Earth’s atmosphere and habitability indices
of the atmospheres of other planetary bodies.

The PDRA will be a full member of the HFSP research and as well as
modelling, is expected to participate in the team’s data analyses and
synthesis efforts, participate in cross-discipline collaboration, training
and knowledge sharing exercises, and may take part in fieldwork.

The PDRA will be expected to lead the presentation of findings at national
and international conferences, and publish in leading academic journals.

Applicants must have a PhD (by time of appointment) in a relevant natural
science discipline, and a track-record of research productivity, including
peer-reviewed publications. Candidates should have experience in
numerical/bioenergetic/ecosystem/habitability modelling, and good
understanding of microbial processes in the context of habitability and
astrobiology. Candidates should demonstrate initiative and the ability to
work independently.

The post is based at the Mile End Campus in London. It is full time post
for 2 years with the possibility of extension subject to available funds,
with an expected start date in September 2023 or as soon as possible after
that date. The starting salary will be £40,223 (Grade 4) per annum pro-rata
inclusive of London Allowance.

Informal enquiries should be addressed to Dr. James Bradley at
james.bradley at qmul.ac.uk.

To apply for the role, please visit:
https://www.qmul.ac.uk/jobs/vacancies/items/8632.html

Applications should include:

   - A cover letter (max. 2 pages) stating your motivation for applying to
   this position, research interests, relevant skills, training and experience.
   - Curriculum vitae.
   - Copy of official transcript(s).
   - Contact information for at least two and up to 3 references.

Important: Please also email Dr. James Bradley (james.bradley at qmul.ac.uk)
to confirm your intention to apply.

The closing date for applications is 25th August 2023.

Interviews are expected to be held in early September 2023.
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