Alberto Canarini

Postdoc opportunity in Soil Microbial Ecology / Biogeochemistry at the University of Bologna, Italy. Alberto Canarini (Associate Professor, University of Bologna) is recruiting a postdoctoral researcher for a 2-year position within the ERC Starting Grant EcoMEMO – Ecological memory of extreme drought events in soil microbial communities . The project asks whether soil microorganisms “remember” drought and how that memory affects responses to future drought events. The postdoc will work on field experiments across Italy and use stable-isotope approaches, soil biogeochemistry, and molecular microbial ecology to quantify active microorganisms and microbial processes. There is also room to develop independent ideas and research questions within the broader EcoMEMO project. Research areas and keywords: soil microbial ecology, biogeochemistry, stable isotopes, molecular microbial ecology, drought ecology, microbial physiology, field experiments, R/statistics, and integration of biogeochemical and microbial community data. Eligibility highlights: a PhD in soil microbial ecology, soil biogeochemistry, microbial ecology, or a related field; experience in experimental research; and strong quantitative/data-analysis skills. Experience with stable isotopes, molecular methods, field work, R/statistics, or multi-data integration is welcome. A driving licence would be useful because the project involves several field sites. Funding: 24-month contract with a gross salary of €39,224/year. The post mentions a possible “rientro dei cervelli” tax incentive for eligible international candidates relocating to Italy, which may improve net pay. Location: University of Bologna, Italy. The team is described as international, with collaborations in Austria, Norway, Japan, and beyond. Application window: the official call is expected to open around 28 October 2026 for approximately 15 days. How to apply: monitor the official University of Bologna call linked in the post, then submit an application once the call opens. The poster also welcomes informal contact before the call opens to discuss fit.