Post-Doctoral Research Associate in Soil Science, Department of Biosystems Engineering & Soil Science: UTIA

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.
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Manage on-going long-term agricultural field experiments and establish new experimental trials
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Design and execute hypothesis-driven research focused on soil health and microbial ecology
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Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory instrumentation, including carbon and nitrogen analyzers and gas chromatographs.
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Publish peer-reviewed research articles as well as extension articles
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Mentor undergraduate and graduate (M.S. level) students in research projects and professional development
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Contribute to grant proposal preparations and outreach events and assist with laboratory management and organization.
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Hold a valid driver's license and be able to travel to field sites across Tennessee as needed.
Required Qualifications:

• Education:
• By the time of hire, the successful candidate should hold a Ph.D. in Soil Science, Agronomy, Soil Ecology, Environmental Science, or a closely related field with a soil health-relevant major.
• Experience:

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Overseeing field experiments, including soil sampling and collection of agronomic and environmental data.
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Leading the preparation and publication of peer-reviewed research articles.
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Working in a dynamic, collaborative, and interdisciplinary research environment.

• Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

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Deep understanding of grand challenges and innovative solutions related to soil health in field-crop and pasture systems, in particular organic systems.
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Demonstrated laboratory skills for the analysis of soil carbon and other soil health indicators
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Proficiency in data analysis and visualization using relevant statistical and computational tools.
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Strong written and verbal communication skills for both scientific and outreach audiences.
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Excellent work ethics, time management, and organizational skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Education:

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Formal certification or training in data analysis

• Experience:

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One year of post-Ph.D. research experience

• Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

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Proficiency in microbial nucleic acid extractions, high-throughput sequencing, meta-analysis
Work Location:

• Location: Knoxville, Tennessee
• Onsite

Compensation and Benefits:

• Find more information on the UT Market Range structure here
• Find more information on UT Benefits here

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.

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• Copies of Undergraduate and Graduate Transcripts