The Department of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science at the University of Tennessee–Knoxville is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher with expertise in soil health and agroecology. This position will focus on investigating the agronomic and ecological impacts of soil health-building practices within diverse ecosystems. The successful candidate will have demonstrated experience in both laboratory and field-based research, as well as strong data analysis and technical writing skills. Experience in in organic cropping systems, microbial sequencing or meta-analysis is highly desirable. In addition to research responsibilities, the postdoc will be expected to mentor undergraduate and entry-level graduate students, support the operation and maintenance of laboratory instruments, and contribute to a collaborative and dynamic research group. This is a grant-funded position and is contingent upon the continued funding of the grant.
Manage on-going long-term agricultural field experiments and establish new experimental trials
Design and execute hypothesis-driven research focused on soil health and microbial ecology
Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory instrumentation, including carbon and nitrogen analyzers and gas chromatographs.
Publish peer-reviewed research articles as well as extension articles
Mentor undergraduate and graduate (M.S. level) students in research projects and professional development
Contribute to grant proposal preparations and outreach events and assist with laboratory management and organization.
Hold a valid driver's license and be able to travel to field sites across Tennessee as needed.
Required Qualifications:
Overseeing field experiments, including soil sampling and collection of agronomic and environmental data.
Leading the preparation and publication of peer-reviewed research articles.
Working in a dynamic, collaborative, and interdisciplinary research environment.
Deep understanding of grand challenges and innovative solutions related to soil health in field-crop and pasture systems, in particular organic systems.
Demonstrated laboratory skills for the analysis of soil carbon and other soil health indicators
Proficiency in data analysis and visualization using relevant statistical and computational tools.
Strong written and verbal communication skills for both scientific and outreach audiences.
Excellent work ethics, time management, and organizational skills.
Preferred Qualifications:
Formal certification or training in data analysis
One year of post-Ph.D. research experience
Proficiency in microbial nucleic acid extractions, high-throughput sequencing, meta-analysis
Work Location:
Compensation and Benefits:
Application Instructions:
To express interest, please submit an application with the noted below attachments. To be assured of full consideration, completed applications with all requested materials should be submitted on or before 10/15/2026.
Job details are sourced from the employer's original posting.
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The University of Tennessee is a public land-grant research university in Knoxville, Tennessee.