Postdoctoral Scholar in Agroecology & Environmental Chemistry

A Postdoctoral Scholar position is available to conduct research on the sustainability and circularity of natural textiles through composting. Composting of cotton-based textiles and use of compost on cotton production agroecosystems is an example of a promising closed-loop strategy. Composting provides an alternative to landfilling and produces a nutrient-rich amendment that improves soil health, sequesters carbon, and promotes plant production. Despite the benefits of composting, several barriers exist in the development and use of compost in a circular textile economy. Research is needed to determine the optimal composting conditions, including the optimal compost recipe, biogeochemical flows, and the fate of chemicals of concerns. This project will leverage innovative experimental composting resources, including household scale compost bins, laboratory bioreactors, and large-scale on-farm composting facilities.

The successful candidate will lead textile composting experiments at various scale using biogeochemical and environmental chemical approaches. These projects will address relevant knowledge gaps on textile recycling, mechanisms of decomposition, and fates of contaminants. They will also contribute to an partnership with researchers and multiple stakeholders.

The postdoc hired for this position will be expected to work independently and in teams, respectfully engage with community partners, develop novel research ideas, and write research papers in a timely manner. In addition, the postdoc will be able to mentor undergraduate students who will work on relevant projects as needed.

The postdoc will be a member of the UCM Agroecology Lab (https://ryalslab.com) and will receive mentorship on research and professional development. For more information, please contact Dr. Rebecca Ryals (rryals@ucmerced.edu)

Applicants must have obtained a Ph.D. in agroecology, environmental chemistry, environmental engineering, soil science, biogeochemistry, agronomy, environmental sciences, geosciences or related fields by the start date of the position.

Applicants must have experience in field and laboratory research methods.

Applicant must have a valid driver's license.

The ideal candidate will be highly motivated to work in a collaborative setting on sustainability research. The desired qualities include: ability to work independently and collaborative settings, excellent written and oral communication skills, experience with or interest in compost research, excellent data analysis and visualization skills, and experience mentoring undergraduate researchers.

• 3 required (contact information only)

The University of California, Merced, is the newest of the University of California system's 10 campuses. With over 9,000 undergraduate and graduate students (https://cie.ucmerced.edu/analytics-hub/student-statistics), UC Merced is committed to interdisciplinary excellence in research and teaching as well as to diversity, equity and inclusion. Ranked as one of the best public universities in the nation by U.S. News and World Report, UC Merced provides outstanding educational opportunities to highly qualified students from the heart of California, the nation, and abroad. The campus has special connections to nearby Yosemite National Park; is on the cutting edge of sustainability in construction and design; and supports the economic development of Central California. The Merced 2020 Project doubled the physical capacity of the campus, and enhanced academic distinction, student success, and research excellence (https://merced2020.ucmerced.edu/).

The University of California, Merced is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer advancing inclusive excellence. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories covered by the UC nondiscrimination policy.

Please refer to the University of California's Affirmative Action Policy and the University of California's Anti-Discrimination Policy.

As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements. This includes the University of California Policy on Vaccination Programs: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/5000695/VaccinationProgramsPolicy.