Postdoctoral Researcher Position (Permafrost Biogeochemistry & Methane Cycling)
Institution: Korea University, Environmental Geomicrobiology Laboratory https://sites.google.com/site/geobiokwon/
Location: Seoul, Republic of Korea (with international fieldwork in Mongolia)
Position Type: Full-time Postdoctoral Researcher
Funding Agency: Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT), Republic of Korea
Project Duration: 1-year contract (renewable annually up to 4 years based on performance)
Project Overview
We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join a newly funded research project entitled: “Effects of Iron (Hydr)oxides on Methane Production and Oxidation in Permafrost.” Permafrost contains ~1,460–1,600 Gt of carbon—approximately 2.5 times the carbon currently in the atmosphere—and its thawing represents a major uncertainty in global carbon cycling and climate feedbacks. This project aims to elucidate how iron-bearing minerals regulate microbial methane (CH4) production and oxidation under changing environmental conditions.
The research integrates field observations, laboratory experiments, microbial ecology, and biogeochemical modeling to improve predictions of greenhouse gas emissions from thawing permafrost.
Key Research Areas:
- Field-based characterization of permafrost environments (active layer dynamics, gas fluxes, geochemistry)
- Microbial methane production and oxidation pathways (hydrogenotrophic vs. acetoclastic)
- Interactions among organic matter–iron minerals–microbes
- Effects of electron donors/acceptors (e.g., Fe(III), sulfate, nitrate) on CH4 cycling
- Laboratory microcosm and reactor experiments under controlled redox, pH, and temperature conditions
- Greenhouse gas measurements (CH4, CO2) including isotopic analyses
- Biogeochemical reaction modeling (e.g., PHREEQC, Geochemist’s Workbench)
Responsibilities:
- Lead and participate in international field campaigns (Mongolian permafrost sites)
- Conduct greenhouse gas flux measurements and sample collection (soil, water, gas)
- Design and perform anaerobic microcosm experiments
- Analyze geochemical and microbiological data (including sequencing datasets)
- Contribute to biogeochemical modeling efforts
- Publish research findings in high-impact international journals
- Collaborate with international partners (e.g., ANL, University of Oregon, Kansas State University)
Required Qualifications:
- Ph.D. in Environmental Science, Geochemistry, Microbiology, Earth Sciences, or a related field
- Strong background in biogeochemistry, geomicrobiology, or environmental chemistry
- Ability to work independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team
- Proficiency in scientific writing and communication in English
Preferred Qualifications:
- Field sampling experience (e.g., soils, groundwater, permafrost, or wetlands)
- Experience with greenhouse gas measurements (CH4, CO2 fluxes, GC, isotope analysis)
- Experience in anaerobic microbial experiments or microcosm studies
- Familiarity with mineralogical or spectroscopic techniques (XRD, SEM, XAFS)
- Demonstrated publication record in peer-reviewed journals
Benefits:
- Competitive salary (based on experience; aligned with national funding guidelines)
- Opportunity for long-term employment (up to 4 years)
- Access to advanced analytical facilities and international research networks
- Opportunities for international collaboration and conference participation
Application Materials:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Cover letter describing research experience and interests
- List of publications
- Contact information for at least two references
Application Deadline:
Open until filled (priority will be given to early applicants)
Contact:
For inquiries and application submission, please contact:
Environmental Geomicrobiology Laboratory
Korea University
Email: manjaekwon@korea.ac.kr