[ES_JOBS_NET] Postdoc: Atmosphere Microbial Habitability Modelling. London, UK

[Carsten Meyer-Jacob]

Thank you for your message. I am currently out of the office with limited internet access until July 19th. I will respond to your message as soon as possible.

On Jul 6, 2023, at 04:24, James Bradley via Es_jobs_net <es_jobs_net at mailman.ucar.edu> wrote:

> 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 PDRA 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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