1. T EAGASC P H D W ALSH F ELLOWSHIP
O PPORTUNITY
Carbon Sequestration in Permanent Pasture and Arable soils –
Baselines and Management Options
Ref: 2013203
Background
A large number of studies around the world show that grasslands may act as a sink of carbon
(C) and that the rate of C sequestration is strongly dependent upon the management of these
ecosystems. Considering that grassland comprises 4 million hectares or 90% of agricultural
area, the size of Irish grassland sinks may be considerable. However, at present there are
several obstacles associated with the measurement and verification of these agricultural
sinks. These include quantification of grassland and arable C sinks across a range of soil
types, and the assessment of strategies that enhance C sinks. This project seeks to quantify
C baselines and investigate the impact of land management on arable and grassland
systems. The project will determine soil C stocks in grassland and arable soils and assess the
impact of soil type and management on soil C stocks. Soil C fractionation will be used to
assess the allocation of SOC between labile and recalcitrant pools. The results of the project
will be published in peer reviewed scientific journals.
Essential
Applicants should have a good primary degree (First or Second Class Honours) or M.Sc. in
an appropriate discipline (Soil Science, Agricultural Science, Environmental Science,
Environmental Engineering, etc.). The successful candidate should be highly self-motivated
and be prepared for extended periods of laboratory analysis. A full EU driving licence is also
required.
Desirable
Additional desirable characteristics would include a familiarity with soil sampling and analysis
and statistical analysis. Experience of environmental modelling would also be a distinct
advantage. Information literacy and oral, written and graphical communication skills are
important to this role.
Award
The Walsh Fellowship is a joint PhD research project between Teagasc, Johnstown Castle
and the University of Limerick. The student will be based at the Teagasc Research Centre at
Johnstown Castle, Co. Wexford and will be registered at the University of Limerick, working
under the supervision of Dr. Ken Byrne in association with Teagasc supervisors (Dr Rachel
Creamer and Dr. Gary Lanigan). The Fellowship will start as soon as possible after the
candidate is appointed.
The fellowship provides a stipend of €21,000. University fees are paid by the student from the
stipend which is tenable for three years.
Application Procedure

2. Submit an electronic copy of Curriculum Vitae in pdf format and a letter of interest to:
Dr Ken Byrne (ken.byrne@ul.ie).
Closing date
15th February 2013.