Graduate Research Assistant

PhD Graduate Research Assistantship in Integrated Plant and Soil Sciences

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD student for a graduate research assistantship in  Integrated Plant and Soil Sciences , with a specialization in  Environmental Sciences and Ecosystem Ecology , at the University of Kentucky. This assistantship focuses on the  biogeochemistry and plant physiology of rare earth elements (REEs) and will be under the direction of Prof. Jason Unrine .

Research Project:  Rare earth elements are indispensable to modern technologies, including those critical to sustainable energy production. Despite their growing importance, our understanding of the biogeochemical cycling of REEs in terrestrial ecosystems remains limited. The selected student will conduct interdisciplinary research aimed at  elucidating the mechanisms by which plants take up and process rare earth elements , contributing to fundamental knowledge with implications for environmental sustainability and resource management.

Facilities:  The position is based in the  Department of Soil Science,  within the  Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Toxicology .  The laboratory is well equipped with advanced analytical instrumentation and facilities for microscopy and molecular biology and will be relocated to a newly constructed state-of-the art research building in early 2027.

Qualifications:   Applicants should have a strong background in  physiology, soil chemistry, mineralogy, and/or biogeochemistry . Experience in  analytical chemistry, microscopy, and/or molecular biology  is highly desirable. A bachelor’s degree in  soil science, biology, chemistry, earth sciences, environmental science , or a closely related field is required; a  master’s degree is preferred .

Support:  The position includes a stipend, tuition remission, and health insurance and starts in the Fall 2026 semester.

Applications:  Interested candidates should complete the form found at this link.   Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. 

https://forms.gle/5FPoeiXRwQtts12h6

Program links:

https://lnkd.in/gtRxCWpE

https://lnkd.in/gzdKD6EV

https://lnkd.in/g3et_kmU