Postdoctoral Fellow in Organic Geochemistry/Paleoclimate

Postdoctoral Fellow in Organic Geochemistry/Paleoclimate

Stockholm University - Department of Environmental Science

Stockholm, Sweden

Project description

The Canadian Beaufort Sea shelf is an ideal region to look for the effect of sea level rise, and large freshwater input on Holocene primary productivity, sea-ice cover and ocean acidification. In parallel, the shallow lakes of the Mackenzie region in the Northwestern Territories (Canada) are at the forefront of recent climatic disturbances, with rising winter air temperatures, change of the timing of the spring freshet and decreased precipitation. Scientific questions can also relate to shifting methane dynamics in a changing Arctic.

Main responsibilities

You will be responsible for extracting and analyzing biomarkers from the Canadian Arctic. Samples are available from previous expeditions (Warm COCOA, FLO CHAR, PeCaBeau) but possibilities will happen to join expeditions to target specific samples. The research will involve intensive laboratory work including the use of gas-chromatographic and stable isotope methods (GC, GC-IRMS, GC-MS), this includes setting up new methods with the support of skilled technicians. We are particularly looking for novel and exciting biomarkers methods such as (but not limited to) bacteriohopanpolyol (BHP) as well as levoglucosan concentration in marine and lake sediments, hydrogen isotope ratios of sterols and alkenones, carbon isotope ratios of GDGT, compound-specific radiocarbon analysis. Scientific interest can range from modern environmental questions to paleoclimate reconstructions.

Qualification requirements

In order to qualify for a Postdoctoral position, applicants are required to hold a Swedish doctoral degree or an equivalent relevant degree from another country. The degree must have been completed no later than when the employment decision is made.

Assessment criteria

It is considered an advantage if the doctoral degree or an equivalent degree was completed no more than three years prior to the application deadline. Under special circumstances, an older degree may also be an advantage. Special circumstances refer to sick leave, parental leave, elected positions in trade unions, service in the total defense, or other similar circumstances, as well as clinical attachment or service/assignments relevant to the subject area.

We are looking for a flexible and motivated candidate that is interested in growing in a new group within an established department. The candidate should have a PhD in organic geochemistry, environmental sciences, geoscience, chemistry, or a related discipline, preferentially with previous experience with the analysis of organic compounds. An interest in paleoclimatology/aquatic geochemistry is expected. As you will work in an international environment the ability to work in an interdisciplinary team and good communication skills including fluency in English are essential. Selection will be based on the quality and ambition of the statement of scientific interest, scientific publications, references, and interview.