Are you interested in a research career and in working at the frontiers of biogeochemical processes? Then here is an opportunity to do a PhD in an internationally recognized research environment supported by national and international cooperation partners.

• Wider context of the project
  The overall aim of the PhD fellowship is to close the gaps in our knowledge on the anaerobic degradation pathways of nitrogen compounds in anoxic groundwater systems.

• Scientific focus of the announced PhD position
  Elevated inorganic nitrate concentrations in aquatic environments can cause significant impacts on aquatic ecosystems and human health. Nitrate concentrations in groundwater have increased over the past decades due to increased agricultural activity that is directly linked to food production. In addition many other sources such as municipal wastewater can also contribute to nitrate contamination in groundwater and surface water. To assess the chemical history of nitrogen-compounds in groundwater, stable isotope technique has proven to be a powerful tool in environmental science.The research questions will primarily be investigated using microcosm experiments linked to field investigations. The project will analyze the dominant sources and sinks of nitrogen in groundwater and their degradation pathways using stable isotope technique.
• Qualifications
  At the date of appointment candidates must hold an MSc degree in natural science (e.g. bio/geochemistry, microbiology, hydrology), preferably with a strong background in biogeochemistry in hydrogeological or marine systems. The successful candidate must be an efficient team worker, have good communication skills, and have a critical approach to formulation and testing of hypotheses. Practical experience and a wish to work in the field and in the lab is a prerequisite.
• Approval and Enrolment
  The scholarships for the PhD degree are subject to academic approval, and the candidates will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes of DTU. For information about the general requirements for enrolment and the general planning of the scholarship studies, please see the DTU PhD Guide.
• PhD at DTU Environment
  As PhD student at DTU Environment you will be part of the scientific staff and treated as such. We are one of the leading university institutes within environmental sciences in Europe with a large network worldwide. We have an international environment with an international MSc education and 60 PhD students from a number of countries. Copenhagen is a pleasant place to live with easy transport and a rich cultural life.
• Salary and appointment terms
  The salary and appointment terms are consistent with the current rules for PhD degree students. The period of employment is 3 years.
  The successful candidate will be employed at and enrolled as a PhD student at DTU Environment (www.env.dtu.dk), and be associated with the RECETO graduate school (www.receto.dk). Annual salary starts at 45,000 EUR before tax, including pension/holiday pay.
  The starting date is negotiable but a quick start is preferred.
• Further information
  Further information is available from Associate Professor Florian Einsiedl, e-mail: fein@env.dtu.dk.
  Do NOT send applications to this e-mail address, but use the electronic submission system – see below!
• Application
  We must have your online application by 31 January 2011. Please open the link “apply for this job online”, fill in the application form and attach the following documents:
  • A cover letter explaining the applicant’s motivation to apply for the research project (not more than one page)
  • A curriculum vitae providing relevant academic, employment and personal details
  • Authorized academic transcripts and copies of master thesis work or publications
  • Contact details for two reference persons that we may contact for further inquires
  • Documentation of English language competence

  Candidates will be evaluated based on their research potential and commitment and selected candidates will be invited for an interview.

The scholarship is open to both Danish and international applicants.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, race, handicap, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.