Post doctoral Fellow - Land Reclamation / Restoration

Competition 2463

This position is part of the Post Doctoral Fellows Association and has an initial appointment of two years with the possibility of extension.

This position has a comprehensive benefits package.

The salary is $55,000 per annum, with consideration for an increase based on experience.

Location -  This role is hybrid with a mix of remote and in-person. Work primarily takes place at North Campus, Edmonton and field sites near Sparwood, BC.

Working at the University of Alberta

The University of Alberta acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages and cultures of First Nations, Métis, Inuit and all FirstPeoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community.

The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to over 14,000 faculty and staff, more than 40,000 students and a growing community of 300,000 alumni worldwide.

Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people — from our students and community members, to our renowned researchers and innovators, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger and more just. Learn more.

Working for the Department of Renewable Resources- Faculty of Agricultural, Life and Environmental Sciences (ALES)

This position is located in the Department of Renewable Resources, Faculty of Agricultural, Life and Environmental Sciences (ALES). Researchers in ALES turn science into solutions. The faculty conducts robust research that provides solutions to global challenges in the areas of agriculture and food, the environment, community and individual well-being and bioresource innovation. The faculty has some of the most comprehensive agricultural and environmental research infrastructure and teaching facilities in the world.

The Department of Renewable Resources is committed to knowledge, innovation, and sustainable practices that shape the future of environmental and conservation sciences, agriculture, soil sciences, and forestry. They are more than just an academic institution; they are a vibrant community driven by a shared passion for positively impacting our world.

Position Summary

We are seeking a post-doctoral fellow (PDF) to join Dr. M. Anne Naeth’s team. The PDF will conduct research that addresses the challenges to successful reclamation of high-elevation grasslands post coal mining. This research will encompass understanding cover material requirements to build anthroposols (use of on and off site materials, understanding physical, chemical and biological properties, application methods), native species establishment (species selection, establishment methods, community development), and ensuring sites are on trajectories towards self-sustaining, resilient soil and plant communities that provide high quality habitat for species such as bighorn sheep.

The successful applicant will work with industry, government, and local stakeholders to develop the research and share outcomes. Field work will be conducted at mine sites near Sparwood, British Columbia. The research will include laboratory and plant growth facility experiments. The results of this study will inform current and future coal mine and high elevation grassland reclamation practices.

This position is funded by a 2-year Mitacs Elevate scholarship. This scholarship involves a comprehensive professional development program. The position will end two years from the start date.  However, there is potential for extension depending on performance and funding availability.

Duties 

• Design and conduct experiments in the field, laboratory and plant growth facilities to address challenges to high elevation grassland reclamation post coal mining.
• Develop successional models and indicators of success (short and long term) for reclaimed high-elevation grasslands.
• Lead development of scientific papers resulting from this research.
• Present the application of results to industry partners and stakeholders on a regular basis.
• Collaborate with team members, including PDFs, graduate students, other faculty, and industry partners.

Minimum Qualifications

• A PhD in land reclamation, restoration ecology, environmental science, soil science, plant ecology or equivalent field of study.
• An Alberta Class 5 non-graduated driver's license and comfortable driving 4x4 trucks.
• Demonstrated experience with field research and commitment to safety.
• Excellent written and oral communication.
• Ability to problem solve and self-manage time and deadlines.
• Competent with data analysis methods and software, including multivariate analyses.
• Adapts readily to changing priorities and schedules.
• Willingness to travel to field sites and live and work with a research assistant for 2-week periods during the field season (May to September).

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in mine and/or grassland reclamation.
• Courses in soil chemistry, soil physics, plant ecology, rangeland science, and microbiology.
• Strong plant taxonomy and identification skills.

How to Apply: 

To apply, please submit the following in a single .PDF document: 

• Cover Letter (Please address interest in specific position and how you meet all qualifications requested) 
• Curriculum Vitae 
• Statement of Teaching/Research Interests
• References (Please provide names and contact information of 2 references. We are not requesting reference letters with the initial application)