Post-doctoral researcher position – biodiversity of forest soils Natural Ressources Canada, Can[...]

Job Description

Soil eDNA metabarcoding as a tool to assess forest degradation A look at forest soil biodiversity across Canada! Accumulating evidence demonstrates that monitoring soil biodiversity with environmental DNA tools (e.g., eDNA metabarcoding) could improve the diagnosis of forest degradation. With around 1,200 ground plots across Canada’s forest ecozones (see map), the National Forest Inventory (NFI) offers a foundation for large-scale monitoring of soil biodiversity in forests on a national scale. Integration of an eDNA component to the NFI framework has the potential to enhance understanding of drivers of soil biodiversity in Canada and interactions with forest attributes, supporting long-term biomonitoring of forest degradation. In a two-year project funded by the Forest Systems Information and Technology Program (ForSITE) of the Canadian Forest Service (CFS), our group is assessing the practicability, feasibility, and value of integrating soil eDNA into the NFI ground plot monitoring framework. In year one of the project, we have collected soil samples from four mock ground plots across Canada to experimentally identify best sampling and preservation practices and potential impact of current NFI and alternative soil sampling protocols on the soil biodiversity information provided by eDNA. We are looking for a candidate who is passionate about forest soil biodiversity to fill a postdoctoral research position available from April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026, at CFS. The postdoctoral researcher will work with a team of soil ecologists, molecular biologists, and bioinformaticians under the co-supervision of Christine Martineau (profile ), Lisa Venier (profile ), and Nicolas Feau (profile ). Specific activities will include completing the analysis of DNA-metabarcoding data (bacteria, fungi, invertebrates) obtained from soil samples collected during year-1 of the project and disseminating the results. Dissemination efforts will involve writing an executive report summarizing key findings and recommendations for integrating eDNA analysis into the NFI framework, as well as preparing a manuscript to share these results with the scientific community. The candidate will be based at one of the three participating CFS research centres (Québec City (QC), Sault Ste. Marie (ON), or Victoria (BC)). The annual salary will be ~$69,000 CAD + benefits. Qualifications Selection of the candidate will be based on the following criteria: A PhD in an appropriate field of research; Sound knowledge of and demonstrated experience with methods and concepts of microbial ecology/soil ecology and molecular biology (experience with the analysis of DNA-metabarcoding data will be an asset); Has published a peer-reviewed article as first author; Very strong oral and written communication skills; Ability to work effectively both in an independent role and collaboratively with others. The CFS is committed to hiring based on merit and fostering an equitable and inclusive workplace, recognizing that diversity is essential to scientific excellence. We strongly encourage applications from individuals belonging to visible minorities or marginalized groups. While all qualified candidates are welcome to apply, priority will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents. To apply If you are interested in this offer, send (1) your CV, (2) a letter of introduction, and (3) the names and contact information of two referees to Christine Martineau ( ) and Nicolas Feau ( ) by February 24, 2025. #J-18808-Ljbffr