Graduate position at Environmental and Life Sciences Program
Sustainable Agriculture: Organic Nitrogen Dynamics is Soils
Supervisor: Dr. Mehdi Sharifi, Canada Research Chair (CRC) in Sustainable
Agriculture, Environmental and Resource Studies Program, Trent University,
Peterborough, Ontario
Location: Trent University, Peterborough, Ontario
Project: Our recent studies have been shown the possibility of existing a finite capacity
of soils to retain organic nitrogen (N), similar to organic carbon. We noted that
intermediate and stable mineralizable N pools have a finite capacity to retain and
preserve soil organic N. The organic N accumulation above this capacity is more
associated with accumulation of N in a temporary mineralizable N pool, which is
unprotected by soil particles and is prone to losses to the environment. This pool is the
main contributor to soil N supply during the growing season. In this research study we
are going to explore this theory in more details and investigate the factors controlling
capacity of soils to retain organic N.
Qualifications:
A BSc degree in Agriculture, Environmental Sciences or Biology with a min. of 77% on
last 10 full university credits (B+ average).
Dates: January or May 2013
Stipend: As per university funding levels ($18000/yr)
To Apply: Please submit a cover letter that includes a brief summary of your research
experience/interests/goals, CV, unofficial transcripts, and names of 2 academic
references to: Dr. Mehdi Sharifi, Ph: 705-7481011 ext. 7954; Fax: 705-748-1569;
Email: mehdisharifi@trentu.ca
Students will also be required to apply to the Environmental & Life Sciences graduate
program through Trent University at www.trentu.ca/graduatestudies .
Graduate Program Information:
For additional information please contact Linda Cardwell at lcardwell@trentu.ca or visit
Trent University graduate studies website at www.trentu.ca/graduatestudies