Research will focus on organic matter dynamics and microbial ecology in the context of a long-term experiment comparing economics and agroecology of certified organic, reduced till/integrated/precision management, and conventional maximum yield approaches for cash-crop and beef-calf production. The project engages a large interdisciplinary team of researchers, producers, and educators in both on-farm and research station settings. Aspiring Ph.D. students interested in links between microbial community structure and soil nutrient cycling, and in environmental impacts of alternative food production systems are encouraged to apply. Applicants should have a strong record of academic excellence, prior field and/or laboratory experience, and a demonstrated interest in soils, ecosystems, or microbiological research. Prior experience using molecular microbiological techniques is desirable. It is likely that the successful candidate will be enrolled through the University of Wyoming's Program in Ecology (PiE) interdisciplinary doctoral program (http://uwacadweb.uwyo.edu/PiE/). The position will begin in the summer or fall of 2009, and the student will be co-advised by Naomi Ward (Dept. of Molecular Biology) and Jay Norton (Dept. of Renewable Resources).

To apply: Please email the following application materials (as one PDF file) to Naomi Ward at nlward@uwyo.edu<mailto:nlward@uwyo.edu>: 1) a current resume or CV, including GPA and test scores (if available); 2) a letter of interest, including research interests, professional goals and prior experience; and 3) contact information, including email addresses, of three potential references. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until a suitable applicant is hired.

For more information on the Ward and Norton research groups, please visit

http://uwacadweb.uwyo.edu/uwmolecbio/Faculty/N_Ward.asp and http://uwadmnweb.uwyo.edu/UWRENEWABLE/Faculty/Norton.htm, respectively. You can also contact us at:

Naomi Ward nlward@uwyo.edu<mailto:nlward@uwyo.edu> (307) 766 3527

Jay Norton jnorton4@uwyo.edu<mailto:jnorton4@uwyo.edu> (307) 766 5082


Jay B. Norton
Assistant Professor - Soil Fertility Specialist
University of Wyoming Department of Renewable Resources
College of Agriculture, Dept. 3354, Agriculture 48
1000 E. University Avenue
Laramie, WY  82071-3354
(307) 766-5082 * Cell: (307) 760-5781 * Fax: (307) 766-6403
jnorton4@uwyo.edu * http://uwyo.edu/soilFert