Postdoctoral Fellowship: Postdoc in Biogeochemical Modeling in Agroecosystems

About the Role

The Department of Agroecology at Aarhus University, Denmark, invites applications for a two-year postdoctoral position in Biogeochemical Modeling in Agroecosystems. The position is fixed-term, full-time from 1 December 2026 to 30 November 2028, with possible extension. You will contribute to a research environment focused on estimating greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, reactive nitrogen dynamics, and climate change mitigation potentials in agroecosystems.

Responsibilities

• Develop and apply a scalable process-based modelling framework to evaluate climate-smart management strategies across Denmark (e.g., nitrification inhibitors, fertiliser management).
• Perform uncertainty analysis and model calibration to support reliable regional projections.
• Map regional mitigation hotspots and assess trade-offs between nutrient use efficiency (NUE), nitrous oxide (N₂O) emissions, and other reactive nitrogen losses.
• Contribute to teaching activities and report research results in high-impact scientific journals.
• Participate actively in the research environment and contribute positively to the social working atmosphere.

Requirements

Essential qualifications

• PhD in agronomy, engineering, biology, technical sciences, or a related field.
• Research experience with process-based models (e.g., DayCent, DNDC, or similar) for simulating carbon, nitrogen, and water flows in agroecosystems.
• Solid background in uncertainty quantification, applied statistics, Bayesian calibration, and Monte Carlo simulations.
• Strong skills in scientific scripting (R, Python) and programming.
• Experience with high-performance computing (HPC) environments and management/analysis of large datasets.
• Excellent English communication skills (written and oral).
• Ability to collaborate within teams and across disciplines.
• Documented experience in scientific writing and publishing in peer-reviewed journals.

What we offer

• A collaborative, international research environment combining high academic standards with an informal, supportive atmosphere.
• Inclusive and respectful workplace culture with mutual trust, kindness, and professional dialogue.
• Flexible working environment supporting work-life balance.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in recruitment and career development.
• Support for international researchers and families, including relocation service and expat partner programme.
• Danish benefits: subsidised childcare, free education (primary through university), universal healthcare, five weeks paid holiday, and generous parental leave (up to 52 weeks shared).

About the Department

The Department of Agroecology comprises nine research sections with ~350 employees (about 50% scientific staff). We provide professional laboratories, greenhouses, semi-field and field-scale facilities, advanced computing capacities, and an extensive national and international researcher network. Our goal is to contribute to sustainable solutions in soil, plants, animals, humans, and the environment.

How to apply

Submit your application via Aarhus University’s recruitment system by 31 August 2026 at 23:59 CEST. Applications must be in English and include: curriculum vitae, degree certificate, complete list of publications, statement of future research plans, information on research activities, and a teaching portfolio (if applicable). Shortlisting will be used; selected candidates will be evaluated by an expert assessment committee.

For further information, contact Tenure-Track Assistant Professor Ram B. Gurung or Professor Diego Abalos (Department of Agroecology – Climate and Water).

Additional information

Appointment and salary are in accordance with the collective labour agreement between the Danish Ministry of Taxation and the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. Salary depends on seniority. Aarhus University offers a Junior Researcher Development Programme for postdocs. Please indicate any periods of leave without research activities in your application to ensure accurate evaluation of scientific productivity.

Original vacancy