MSc/PhD Research Studentships
Soil biology research (Ireland)
Agriculture and Food Science Centre
University College Dublin

Applications are invited from first or upper second Honours graduatesin biological, ecological, environmental, soil science or otherappropriate disciplines for two postgraduate research studentships insoil biology research in Ireland, commencing in September 2006.

Both studentships are initially funded for two years (MSc), but may beextended by a third year (PhD). The studentships quoted below areexempt from tax, but include registration fees for University CollegeDublin (Academic Year 2006-07: €4,600 for EU and €9,200 for non-EUcitizens).

Position 1: Soil biodiversity response to applications of biosolidsThis applied research project will investigate the response ofbeneficial soil organisms (earthworms, springtails, ground beetles) toland application of biosolids (treated sewage sludge). Studies will beconducted under both field and greenhouse conditions to assessbiodiversity responses by field populations and investigate mechanismsby which biosolids affect populations of soil animals. This positionis funded by a Teagasc Walsh studentship (€17,000 per annum) and thestudent will be based at the Teagasc Crops Research Centre, Carlow,Ireland.

Position 2: Isotopic studies in earthworm ecologyIn this basic research project, the availability and quality of foodresources (plant litter) for earthworms will be manipulated ingreenhouse and field experiments. Carbon and nitrogen assimilationfrom these resources by three earthworm species will be quantifiedusing stable isotope techniques. The studentship for this position(€19,050 per annum) is funded through a Science Foundation Irelandresearch grant and the student will be based at University CollegeDublin, Ireland.

Applicants must submit the following: A concise CV, a letter ofinterest, a statement on timing of availability, and names and contactdetails of two academic referees. Applications should be submitted byemail (Acrobat PDF if possible), to arrive before Monday, 28th August2006, 17:00 GMT, to:

Dr. Olaf Schmidt, e-mail: olaf.schmidt@ucd.ie
UCD School of Biology and Environmental Science,
Agriculture and Food Science Centre,
University College Dublin,
Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland.