Postdoctoral Research Associate in Nutrient Biogeochemistry of Phosphorus and Nitrogen in Agricultural Soils University of Maryland in United States

Postdoctoral Research Associate in Nutrient Biogeochemistry at the University of Maryland, in the Department of Environmental Science and Technology, with the Nutrient Management and Water Quality group led by Gurpal Toor.

The position focuses on the biogeochemistry of phosphorus (75%) and nitrogen (25%) in agricultural soils, especially corn-soybean systems in Maryland. The work is centered on nutrient fate and transport, crop production systems, and environmental sustainability, with a mix of field work, lab work, and writing (papers, reports, factsheets, and grants).

Research themes and methods include nutrient cycling in soils, wet chemistry, isotopic approaches, and applied soil/crop science. The postdoc will also collaborate with farmers, non-profits, and state agency personnel, and contribute to field-based soil research and outreach-oriented outputs.

Eligibility highlights: a Ph.D. in soil biogeochemistry, plant science, agronomy, soil fertility, ecology, or a related field is required. Experience with row crops (especially corn-soybean) is preferred. The ad also asks for a Ph.D. earned within the last 5 years, a valid US driver's license, strong communication and interpersonal skills, statistical skills, and proficiency with R or another statistical/visualization tool.

Funding: the appointment is for one year initially, with a possible extension depending on performance and funding availability.

Application: apply via the Google Form in the advertisement. Prepare a cover letter explaining fit, a CV, a list of three references, and a combined PDF of two relevant journal articles on N and/or P. The post says not to send documents by email or messages.

Timing: the position is open immediately, and the group aims to recruit by August 2026 at the latest.