About the Project
This fully funded PhD research project will investigate N and P dynamics under the application of liquid cattle and pig manures and synthetic NPK fertilizer at the long-term nutrient fertilization experiment at Hillsborough in Northern Ireland with the aim to improve nutrient use efficiency and reduce losses to the environment. This research work will involve i) measurements of mineral and organic N and P leaching under the above mentioned managements; ii) DayCent modelling of soil C, N and P dynamics employing the experimental data that are available and additional data collected during the project timeframe; iii) computation of soil nutrient balances and agronomic use efficiencies. Through the ecosystem modelling, the project will quantify the long-term effects of these soil management practices on grass production, soil nutrient stocks, nutrient losses to the environment under changing climate with implications for climate change and water pollution.
The long-term nutrient fertilization experiment at Hillsborough was established on clay loam soil in 1970 and has been the only long-term grassland experiment on liquid manure applications worldwide. Project results will enable the development of nutrient management recommendations for farmers and policy makers for increasing nutrient use efficiency and reducing environmental nutrient losses from agricultural systems.
The student will work with Dr. Magdalena Necpalova at the School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin (UCD), and Dr. Dario Fornara at the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI).
Applicants must have a primary degree (2.1 or above) in an appropriate discipline (e.g. environmental science, ecology, biology, agricultural science). A Master’s degree and/or additional research experience (especially in soil science) would be a distinctive advantage. The successful candidate should be self-motivated, independent, and interested in conducting field work, laboratory work, ecosystem process-based modelling and desk-based analyses. Candidates whose first degree was not taught through English must meet UCD’s Minimum English Language Requirements (http://www.ucd.ie/registry/admissions/elr.html). A driving licence is desirable.
This fully funded PhD studentship is a joint research project between UCD and AFBI. The student will work under the supervision of Dr. Magdalena Necpalova at UCD in Dublin (Rep. of Ireland) and Dr. Dario Fornara at AFBI in Hillsborough (Northern Ireland). The student will be registered for a structured doctoral degree programme at UCD and the student’s research, training and development will be guided by a Research Studies Panel. The student will also complete a number of advanced PhD-level modules, courses and workshops tailored towards his/her training needs in soil science, nutrient cycling, ecosystem modelling, statistical analysis, scientific writing etc, as well as transferable skills and professional training which will benefit his/her future career. This PhD position is expected to start on 1st September 2020.
The studentship funding is €18,000 per year, for 4 years, which covers a tax-free stipend paid monthly. The School of Agriculture and Food Science waives fees, EU or Non-EU, for this studentship.
For more information about this position contact Dr. Magdalena Necpalova ([Email Address Removed]).
The application should be submitted electronically: 1) Curriculum Vitae (including names and contact details for two referees) and 2) a letter of motivation to Dr. Magdalena Necpalova.
Closing date: Friday 14th August 2020
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