Ph.D. position about the occurrence and fate of micro- and nanoplastics in Swiss arable soils, Uni Bern

The Soil Science Group of the Institute of Geography, University of Bern, Switzerland, is inviting applications for

One Ph.D. position about the occurrence and fate of micro- and nanoplastics in Swiss arable soils

Background
Significant amounts of plastics end up in soils by littering, sewage sludge and compost application, the use of plastic foils, irrigation with contaminated water, atmospheric deposition and many other sources. The plastics might be already in the micro- or nano size range or disintegrate to small plastic items like microplastics (MP) or nanoplastics (NP). These MP and NP are known to have negative effects on organisms and soil properties and might affect soil ecology and fertility. However, knowledge about the occurrence and fate of MP and NP in soils is still very limited. With this project we aim to 1) further develop and test methods for the analysis of MP and NP in soils and 2) analyze the sources and 3) transport of MP in Swiss agricultural soils.

Requirements
The successful candidate will have a Master in Geography, Geology, Chemistry, Environmental Sciences or similar disciplines. Experience in field sampling, in lab work and in using analytical instruments is required. Specific experience with method development, MP research, research about nano particles, FTIR and Raman spectroscopy and STXM is an asset. The successful candidate will have good English writing and communication skills.

Further information
The salary is according to SNF guidelines, with funding guaranteed for 3.5 years starting from 01.01.2019 or later. Please send a single PDF including a letter of motivation, a complete CV and the names and addresses of two referees to microplastic.bern@gmail.com until 10.12.2018.
For further information, please contact Dr. Moritz Bigalke, microplastic.bern@gmail.com.


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Von:

Moritz Bigalke
microplastic.bern@gmail.com
University of Bern
Bern

Ansprechpartner: Moritz Bigalke, microplastic.bern@gmail.com