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- Aufgaben: Conduct field measurements and data analysis on soil health using innovative methods.
- Arbeitgeber: Join ZALF, a leading research institute focused on sustainable agriculture and environmental solutions.
- Mitarbeitervorteile: Enjoy a flexible work environment, skill training, and a strong work-life balance.
- Warum dieser Job: Be part of groundbreaking research that impacts climate resilience and biodiversity in agriculture.
- Gewünschte Qualifikationen: Master's in agriculture or related fields; experience in fieldwork and data analysis is a plus.
- Andere Informationen: PhD option available; applications from women and disabled persons are encouraged.
Das voraussichtliche Gehalt liegt zwischen 36000 - 60000 € pro Jahr.
Research Scientist (w/m/d) Agriculture
Leibniz Centre for Agricultural Landscape Research (ZALF), Müncheberg
The mission of the Leibniz Centre for Agricultural Landscape Research (ZALF) as a nationally and internationally active research institute is to deliver economically, environmentally and socially sustainable agriculture - together with society. ZALF is a member of the Leibniz Association and is located in Müncheberg (approx. 35 minutes by regional train from Berlin-Lichtenberg). It also maintains a research station with further locations in Dedelow and Paulinenaue.
We are offering a research position within the BMBF funded junior research group "Towards healthy soils by using autonomous field robots in diversified agricultural landscapes" (SoilRob). SoilRob aims at examining whether the utilization of autonomous field robots and the integration of high-resolution data in diversified cropping systems can enhance soil health, boost soil-based ecosystem services, and stabilize or increase yields compared to conventionally managed fields. A comprehensive assessment of physical, chemical, and biological soil parameters related to soil-based ecosystem functions and sustainable development goals is conducted with beyond state-of the art methods and technologies.
The activities of SoilRob are clustered in regard to five different soil-based ecosystem services: crop production, nutrient cycling with focus on nitrogen, water storage & filter, climate regulation, and biodiversity & habitat provision. Within this researcher position, we aim at collecting and exploring indicators to quantify soil-based ecosystem services of Carbon Sequestration & Climate Resilience and Biodiversity & Habitats. The extensive data collection is carried out in patchCROP, an experimental platform and landscape laboratory managed partly with robots. Additional experimental sites for sample collection and field measurements will be established across five other locations in Germany.
The objective of this comprehensive assessment is to quantify the changes in local and global carbon (C) regulation and the influence on soil as a habitat and reservoir of biodiversity as affected by the use of agricultural robots. Additionally, the measurements aim to assess the impact of diversification practices on carbon dynamics and soil biology.
This position is located in the ZALF research area "Land Use and Governance" in the working group "Resource-Efficient Cropping Systems" and includes a research scientist position for 4 years (TVL13, 80%) starting from January 2024 and with the option to conduct a PhD.
Your tasks:
- Conduct field measurements, samplings and observations on carbon pools & composition, meso- and macrofauna.
- Apply and adjust different laboratory methods to determine soil structure, aggregate stability and microbial biomass.
- Support the real-time data collection with a field scanner for soil roughness.
- Collaborate with project partners (e.g. BMBL Experimentierfelder).
- Data analysis and public results presentation, e.g. at international conferences.
- Data exchange with other SoilRob activities and participation at Transfer events.
- Publish results in peer-reviewed internationally scientific journals.
Your qualifications:
- Master of science in agriculture, soil science, geosciences, or related disciplines, with a focus on soils.
- Experience in field and/or laboratory work related to agriculture/soil science.
- Experience with geographical information systems and mapping is desirable.
- Excellent communication skills in English.
- Knowledge of statistical data analysis, preferably with R or Python, is expected.
- Driver's licence strongly recommended.
- Willingness to travel within Germany for several days, for sampling campaigns and cooperation with project partners must be present.
We offer:
- An interdisciplinary and open-minded working environment that encourages independence and self-reliance.
- Broad network activities within the Junior Research group SoilRob.
- Membership in ZALF's graduate program (incl. benefit from skill training courses).
- Strong institutional commitment to a good work-life balance.
- Classification according to the collective agreement of the federal states (TV-L) up to EG13 with a 80% weekly working time (including special annual payment).
- Company train ticket.
Women are particularly encouraged to apply. Applications from severely disabled persons with equal qualifications are favored. Please send your application preferably online. Please include a cover letter, a CV, copy of your MSc degree, transcripts (proof of qualification and certificates), and the names and contact information for three references, stating the reference number 104-2023 until November 6th, 2023.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact: Dr. Kathrin Grahmann, Tel. +49 (0) 33432/82-142, Kathrin.Grahmann(at)zalf.de.
Research Scientist Arbeitgeber: Leibniz-Gemeinschaft
Kontaktperson:
Leibniz-Gemeinschaft HR Team
StudySmarter Bewerbungstipps 🤫
So bekommst du den Job: Research Scientist
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the latest research and technologies in soil science and autonomous field robots. This will not only help you understand the project better but also allow you to engage in meaningful discussions during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of agriculture and soil science. Attend relevant conferences or workshops where you can meet potential colleagues and learn more about ongoing projects, including those at ZALF.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with data analysis tools like R or Python. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've applied these skills in previous projects, as this is a key requirement for the position.
✨Tip Number 4
Show your enthusiasm for interdisciplinary collaboration. Highlight any past experiences where you've worked with diverse teams, as this role involves collaboration with various project partners.
Diese Fähigkeiten machen dich zur top Bewerber*in für die Stelle: Research Scientist
Tipps für deine Bewerbung 🫡
Understand the Research Focus: Familiarize yourself with the specific research goals of the SoilRob project. Highlight your relevant experience in soil science, agriculture, or related fields in your application.
Tailor Your Cover Letter: Craft a personalized cover letter that addresses the key responsibilities and qualifications mentioned in the job description. Emphasize your experience with field measurements, data analysis, and collaboration with project partners.
Showcase Relevant Skills: In your CV, clearly outline your skills in statistical data analysis, particularly with R or Python, as well as any experience with geographical information systems. This will demonstrate your fit for the position.
Prepare Supporting Documents: Gather all necessary documents, including your MSc degree, transcripts, and references. Ensure that your references are aware they may be contacted and can speak to your qualifications and experiences.
Wie du dich auf ein Vorstellungsgespräch bei Leibniz-Gemeinschaft vorbereitest
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Make sure to brush up on your knowledge of soil science and agricultural practices. Be ready to discuss specific methodologies you have used in field measurements or laboratory work, as well as your experience with data analysis using R or Python.
✨Show Your Passion for Sustainable Agriculture
Demonstrate your enthusiasm for sustainable agriculture and how it aligns with ZALF's mission. Share any relevant experiences or projects that highlight your commitment to environmentally friendly practices and innovative research.
✨Highlight Collaboration Skills
Since the role involves collaboration with project partners, be prepared to discuss your teamwork experiences. Provide examples of how you've successfully worked with others in research settings, especially in interdisciplinary teams.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the SoilRob project and its objectives. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you understand how you can contribute to the team's goals.
