A PhD candidate is sought to assess the impacts of biochar on soil hydrology, structure and biological health, and eventual impact on vegetable production in organic-matter depleted soils. The other focus of this work would be to investigate reduction in soil erosion and nutrient loss using biochar as soil amendment. The candidate must appreciate and have some background ideas about the use of biochar as a soil amendment to sequester carbon and improve soil productivity. The candidate must be eligible to be enrolled for a PhD programme in Civil & Environmental Engineering Department of the University of Auckland, City campus. The student is expected to have the following requirements:
· A First-Class Masters Degree (good GPA) in Environmental or Agricultural Engineering, Environmental/Soil Science, or related discipline with sound knowledge on soil/environmental chemistry and analytical skills required to carry out laboratory experiments involving soil samples.
· Knowledge on soil physics/hydrology, soil microbiology would be advantageous.
· Knowledge on processes that govern the retention and transport of water and nutrients in soils.
· Modelling skills involving solute transport/degradation in unsaturated media are also desirable.
· Must be able to work independently for long hours both in the field and laboratory.
· Successful candidate must be able to plan and design experiments.
· Must have a willingness to write reports and scientific papers.
· Must be able to speak, write and converse in English fluently.
· Must have a valid driver’s licence.
The stipend of NZ$25K (Tax free) is available for up to 3 years and possible extension for about another year depending upon the progress of the study. Tuition Fees will be covered by the University through a separate project. However, the candidate is expected to pay for his/her health insurance during the period of stay in NZ.
For more information, please contact:
Dr. Ajit K Sarmah
Senior Lecturer in Environmental Engineering
Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering
Faculty of Engineering,
The University of Auckland,
Private Bag 92019, Auckland, New Zealand
Tel: 64 9 3737599 extn: 89067