Postdoc on stable isotopes in soil nitrogen cycles

Department of Geosciences and Natural Resource Management (IGN)
Faculty of Science
University of Copenhagen
This position is linked to ongoing research activities having adjacent objectives within the topic of soil nitrogen stable isotopes (15N). It is expected that the successful candidate will be leading tasks to i) investigate and map the spatial patterns in soil and vegetation nitrogen isotopes (15N) across different land use managements. This is achieved to test the hypothesis that 15N abundances are valid proxies for longer-term soil biogeochemical N-processes. Maps of 15N distribution and links to current and historical land management will be a key output. The other task is to ii) trace soil 15N in emitted nitrous oxide (N2O) under different agricultural management options. This is carried out to test the efficiency of nitrification inhibitors to mitigate N2O emissions.

The analytical work in activity i) will primarily be deployed to material that has been collected and archived in previous research projects. Activity ii) is linked to newly established experiments and work in the field with collection of samples is expected. All analysis will be carried out in own laboratory at IGN and will be supported by technical staff for sample preparation and isotope analysis.

The work includes close collaboration with other institutions, specifically in the Land-CRAFT pioneer center (Land-CRAFT.dk) on a sustainable future agriculture, Århus University, and in SEGES Innovation (segesinnovation.com). It is thus expected that the candidate will take an active role in collaboration and knowledge exchange with scientists from these other groups.

A background in terrestrial ecosystem CN-biogeochemistry and prior work with stable isotope analysis is considered favorable. Possession of driver’s license is a necessity.

The postdoc’s duties will include experimental research within the field described. The post may also include minor contributions to teaching.

Further information on the Department is linked at ign.ku.dk. Inquiries about the position can be made to Professor Per Ambus ([email protected]).

The position is open from 1st of April 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter, and the contract is for 30 months.

The University wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.

Terms of employment
The position is covered by the Memorandum on Job Structure for Academic Staff.

Terms of appointment and payment accord to the agreement between the Ministry of Finance and The Danish Confederation of Professional Associations on Academics in the State.

Negotiation for salary supplement is possible.

The application, in English, must be submitted electronically by clicking APPLY NOW below.

Please include

• Curriculum vitae
• Diplomas (Master and PhD degree or equivalent)
• Complete publication list
• Separate reprints of 3 particularly relevant papers

The deadline for applications is 4 February 2026, 23:59 GMT +1.
After the expiry of the deadline for applications, the authorized recruitment manager selects applicants for assessment on the advice of the Interview Committee.

You can read about the recruitment process at https://employment.ku.dk/faculty/recruitment-process/.
Interviews will be held in week 11.

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Kontakt
Per Lennart Ambus
E-mail: [email protected]

Info
Ansøgningsfrist: 04-02-2026

Ansættelsesdato: 01-04-2026

Arbejdstid: Fuldtid

Afdeling/Sted: Department of Geosciences and Natural Resource Management (IGN)