*Post Doc position - Modelling nutrient acquisition by crops (Bonn,
Germany)*



The Crop Science Group at the Institute of Crop Science and Research Conservation (INRES), University of Bonn, offers a Post Doc position within theresearch project "Modelling nutrient acquisition by crops with specific consideration of biopores".



Quantitative understanding of the interactions between soil structure,
soil nutrient pools, root architecture and water and nutrient uptake
from subsoils by crops requires approaches that consider the complexity
of processes involved including shoot growth, root development, soil
water dynamics and soil nutrient turnover. Mathematical modelling
provides a helpful mean for the quantitative description of water and
nutrient dynamics within the plant-soil system. The simulation of
nutrient acquisition by crops from the subsoil has to take into account
not only crop types with their specific root system, but also soil
structure and in particular biopores. The consideration of the effects
of biopore density and quality as well as soil water status on nutrient
turnover and accessibility in the subsoil should improve the dynamic
simulation modelling of nutrient acquisition by crops at the field scale
providing a better basis for improving agronomic management and crops in
the future. The project belongs to a joint initiative of a total of five
projects which will cooperate together.

The major task of the incumbent is to develop specific submodels within
the modelling framework SIMPLACE (www.simplace.net) for the turnover and
uptake of N and P within the soil matrix as well as in the soil
biopores. Model development, calibration and validation takes advantage
of data which have been collected previously and additional data to be
gathered during the project period. Close cooperation with other model
developers running a higher resolution 3D root growth models is anticipated.



We are looking for a highly motivated person to work in an interdisciplinary team. The successful candidate has a PhD degree in agriculture, soil science, geo-ecology or related sciences with a background in crop production and/or soil science and expertise in using simulation models. Experiences in developing process-based, numerical models at the soil-plant interface and in object-oriented computer programming is an advantage.



The position is a full position and paid according to the German regulations for scientists at the Post Doc level (TVL-13). Applicants with more than three years of experience in scientific research may be eligible for additional upgrades. The position is for a period of 3 years, starting on June 1^st  , 2014 or as soon as possible.



Applications of handicapped persons will be favored when all other qualifications are equal. Female candidates are encouraged to submit their applications. Applications (CV including photograph, diploma certificates/transcripts, list of publications, statement of research interests and achievements) should be sent until April 20, 2014 to



Dr. Thomas Gaiser

C/o Institute of Crop Science and Resource Conservation

University of Bonn

D-53115 Bonn, Germany

Email:[log in to unmask]  <mailto:[log in to unmask]>



For further information concerning our institute, please visithttp://www.lap.uni-bonn.de/home?set_language=en