The microbial ecology of the alpine in a changing winter climate

Winter conditions are changing, with rapid reductions in northern-hemisphere snowcover. This is of huge importance for alpine ecosystems, which are disproportionately biodiverse, and considered a sentinel for climate change due to observed rapid changes in plant communities. However, belowground diversity and biogeochemistry of soil organisms is poorly reconciled, hindering our ability to predict the impacts of change to the whole ecosystem. This project will explore snow-cover gradients and how they shape the microbial ecology of the European alpine. It will ask how we can predict the impacts of change through a combination of exciting field surveys and sampling, interrogation of the microbial community, and an in-situ transplantation experiment.

Are you motivated to be part of an exciting blend of microbial ecology, network modelling and field ecology in the high alpine mountains of Europe, plus work with a truly international team of colleagues? If so, you’ll have the opportunity to become trained in cutting-edge techniques of community analysis, gain valuable skills in soil and ecosystem ecology and biogeochemistry, contribute to the pressing issue of the climate emergency through novel scientific methods, and spend time in some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. You are curious, keen for adventure, motivated to work in an exciting cross-disciplinary manner, and want to spend time in the outdoors. For details, email [Email Address Removed] and check out @mountainecology

The ACCE DTP is committed to recruiting extraordinary future scientists regardless of age, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation or career pathway to date. We understand that commitment and excellence can be shown in many ways and have built our recruitment process to reflect this. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, particularly those underrepresented in science, who have curiosity, creativity and a drive to learn new skills.