Fully funded PhD Student Positions in Soil Biogeochemistry at the University of Texas at Dallas
- Employer
- The University of Texas at Dallas, Sustainable Earth Systems Sciences Department
- Location
- Dallas, Texas
- Closing date
- Feb 16, 2025
View more categoriesView less categories
- Discipline
- Biogeosciences
- Career Level
- Student / Graduate
- Education Level
- Bachelors
- Job Type
- Internship
- Relocation Cost
- No Relocation
- Sector Type
- Academia
We invite applications from one or two highly motivated PhD students to join the Sustainable Soil Biogeochemistry Lab, led by Dr. Qian Zhao at the University of Texas at Dallas, for Fall 2025. These positions are fully funded through research or teaching assistantships. Applications submitted by February 11, 2025, will receive priority consideration for admission and UT Dallas fellowships.
Research Focus:
The lab aims to deepen our mechanistic understanding of multi-scale soil carbon biogeochemical cycling, spanning molecular to global scales, with significant implications for environmental sustainability. Key research areas include: 1) investigating the dynamics of soil carbon persistence under extreme climate events (e.g., wildfire), 2) exploring how soil organic matter interacts with minerals for long-term stabilization, and 3) assessing how environmental contaminants influence Earth system processes. The ultimate goal is to advance insights into carbon biogeochemical processes occurring at organic matter-mineral-microorganism interfaces in terrestrial ecosystems.
Advisor:
Dr. Qian Zhao is an Assistant Professor at UT Dallas (Profile) with expertise in soil biogeochemistry and Earth system processes. Before joining UT Dallas, Dr. Zhao served as an Earth Scientist and Postdoctoral Research Associate at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. He earned his Ph.D. from the University of Nevada, Reno, and his M.S. from Oklahoma State University. Dr. Zhao has extensive experience in utilizing cutting-edge, technology-based instruments to conduct molecular-level investigation on soil carbon dynamics. He has published over 35 peer-reviewed journal articles, which have collectively garnered more than 650 citations, reflecting his significant contributions to the field.
Qualifications:
We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive research environment and encourage applicants with the following qualifications to apply:
- A bachelor's or master's degree in Earth sciences, environmental science or engineering, soil science, soil ecology, or related fields.
- A strong interest in soil biogeochemistry, carbon stabilization/persistence, soil organic matter dynamics, or Earth system interactions.
- Ability to work well independently and in a team environment.
- Demonstrated skills in laboratory analysis and professional writing (e.g., journal publications) are preferred.
- Experience in programming (e.g., R, Python) and data analysis is preferred.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates are encouraged to contact Dr. Qian Zhao (email: qian.zhao@utdallas.edu) before submitting an official application. Please include the following: a CV, unofficial transcripts, and a brief statement of qualifications and interest in the position.
Applications for the PhD in Geosciences program should be submitted through the UT Dallas portal: UT Dallas Geosciences PhD Program Application. For additional information, please visit the Department of Geosciences website.
Apply for Fully funded PhD Student Positions in Soil Biogeochemistry at the University of Texas at Dallas
Already uploaded your CV? Sign in to apply instantly
Fields marked with an asterisk (*) are required
Get job alerts
Create a job alert and receive personalized job recommendations straight to your inbox.
Create alert