About the Program
The University of Reading is offering a Postdoctoral Research Associate position in Soil and Crop Sciences as part of the LEGUMINOSE project. This fully-funded, fixed-term position focuses on understanding the benefits of cereal-legume intercrops for improving crop quality and soil health, as well as measuring nitrogen losses through field and laboratory studies. Supervised by Prof. Tom Sizmur and Prof. John Hammond, the project is based at Whiteknights Campus and Sonning Farm, Reading, UK, and runs until 31st October 2026. The role involves a combination of fieldwork, laboratory analysis, quantitative data science, manuscript preparation, and science communication, contributing to interdisciplinary and high-impact research in sustainable agriculture across Europe. This position is ideal for researchers seeking practical experience in agroecosystems and environmental data analysis.
Program Details
- Position: Postdoctoral Research Associate / Doctoral-Level Researcher
- Institution: University of Reading
- Department/Faculty: School of Archaeology, Geography & Environmental Science
- Supervisor: Prof. Tom Sizmur and Prof. John Hammond
- Location: Reading, UK
- Start Date (Anticipated): January or February 2026
- Duration: Fixed-term until 31st October 2026
- Funding: Full-time, salary £36,636 per annum
- Working Hours: 35 hours per week
- Required Degree/Diploma: PhD (or near completion) in Agriculture, Soil Science, Crop Science, Environmental Science, or relevant discipline
Research Focus/Area
- Soil Science
- Crop Science
- Sustainable Agriculture
- Carbon and Nitrogen Cycling
- Field Experimentation
- Laboratory Analysis
- Quantitative Environmental Data Analysis
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- PhD (or near completion) in Agriculture, Soil Science, Crop Science, Environmental Science, or related discipline
- Experience in field measurements and laboratory analysis
- Strong quantitative and statistical analysis skills
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Ability to work collaboratively in interdisciplinary teams
Preferred Qualifications:
- Research experience in agroecosystems
- Strong academic record
- Knowledge of carbon and nitrogen cycling methodologies
Key Features of the Program
- Opportunity to contribute to the LEGUMINOSE UKRI/Horizon Europe project
- Access to field sites at Whiteknights and Sonning Farm
- Laboratory support and research infrastructure
- Interdisciplinary and international research collaboration
- Support for manuscript preparation, presentations, and conference travel
Application Process
- How to Apply: Submit applications via the University of Reading recruitment portal
- Required Documents: CV, cover letter, research statement, academic transcripts, references
Important Dates:
- Applications Open: 4th November 2025
- Deadline: 5th December 2025, 23:59
- Interviews: 15th December 2025
Where to Apply
- University Website: University of Reading
- Official Notification: click here
- Application Portal: Apply Here
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