Department of Earth Sciences, University of Toronto, 22 Ursula Franklin St., Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3B1, Canada
POSTDOCTORAL POSITIONS IN FLUID-ROCK INTERACTIONS & INVESTIGATION OF DEEP SUBSURFACE LIFE
Stable Isotope Laboratory, University of Toronto
Water-rock reactions supporting the deep subsurface biosphere by producing electron donors and acceptors in the subsurface have been identified, from serpentinization (mineral hydration reactions), to radiogenic reactions (Lin et al., 2005a&b; Sherwood Lollar et al., 2014; 2021; Li et al., 2016). This project focuses on the potential for a radiolytically driven H, S, and C deep cycle in the Earth's subsurface, and the reaction mechanisms and rates sustaining deep subsurface microorganisms in the absence of interaction with the surface photosphere. Unlike lithologically-dependent reactions like serpentinization, radiogenic reactions are common to all planets and moons, and as such, the Earth-based focus on this work will have direct relevance for models of planetary habitability capable of sustaining subsurface chemolithotrophic life on planets or moons where photosynthesis may never have arisen (NASEM, 2018).
Constraining the governing controls on these reactions is a major limiting factor in our ability to predict rates of energetic availability (habitability) in the subsurface, biomass quantities, levels of microbial activity, and the distribution and preservation of life in the deep earth. Key parameters to be investigated in this program include the influence of mineral, and elemental distributions (O, F, U, Th, K) that drive and trace these major radiogenic reactions, as well as uncertainties in the distribution, transport and age of deep groundwaters that host microbial ecosystems. Finally, a major challenge is to quantitatively predict the overarching controls on α, β, γ radiation flux that define this Radiogenic (rather than Photosynthesis based) biome.
Field, laboratory and modelling opportunities are available to extend the existing program to explore the implications of our work on Earth analogs to the search for life on the rocky bodies and ocean worlds of our solar system. Applicants with a PhD in geochemistry, geobiology, chemistry, microbiology or related disciplines are encouraged to apply.
The University of Toronto is committed to an equitable, diverse, and inclusive workforce. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage women; First Nations, Métis and Inuit persons; members of visible minority groups; persons with disabilities; persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression; and all those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas to apply.
Applicants, please send a detailed CV, statement of research interests and potential fit to the team, along with 3 letters of recommendation directly to:
Dr. B. Sherwood Lollar
Dept. of Earth Sciences, University of Toronto
22 Ursula Franklin St.
Toronto, Ontario M5S 3B1 Canada
Email: [email protected]
Due Date: Position is open immediately and will remain open until the position(s) are filled.
POSTDOCTORAL POSITIONS IN ISOTOPE GEOCHEMISTRY & CONTAMINANT HYDROGEOLOGY
Stable Isotope Laboratory, University of Toronto
Postdoctoral fellows in earth sciences, hydrogeology, environmental chemistry, isotope geochemistry and/or microbiology sought for research projects in compound specific isotope analysis (CSIA) to investigate the fate and transport of hydrocarbon contaminants in the subsurface and at the groundwater-surface water interface. Novel instrumental approaches have been developed that target discharge zones between groundwater and surface waters and enable application of CSIA at fine spatial scale across this important redox transition zone. Through a combination of field, laboratory and modelling approaches we hope to explore the controls of diffusion, advective transport, sorption and biodegradation on contaminant profiles and isotopic signatures with the goal of refining the ability of CSIA to address biodegradation rates at contaminated sites for a variety of important hydrocarbon pollutants impacting soils, groundwaters, surface waters and the atmosphere. Active collaborations and interactions with industry partners and international collaborators provide an enriching and rewarding intellectual environment.
The University of Toronto is committed to an equitable, diverse, and inclusive workforce. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage women; First Nations, Métis and Inuit persons; members of visible minority groups; persons with disabilities; persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression; and all those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas to apply.
Applicants, please send a detailed CV, statement of research interests and potential fit to the team, along with 3 letters of recommendation directly to:
Dr. B. Sherwood Lollar
Dept. of Earth Sciences, University of Toronto
22 Ursula Franklin St.
Toronto, Ontario M5S 3B1 Canada
Email: [email protected]
Due Date: Position is open immediately and will remain open until the position(s) are filled.
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