A funded PhD opportunity in soil biogeochemistry is available at the University of Wyoming for prospective doctoral students interested in soil science, ecosystem ecology, climate change, environmental science, and soil organic matter research. The PhD student will join the newly established Soil Carbon and Organic matter Response to Environmental change (Soil CORE) Lab, led by PI Katie Rocci. The student will work with researchers in the Department of Ecosystem Science and Management and the Program in Ecology and Evolution to develop and implement independent research projects examining how soil organic matter responds to climate and management changes. The position provides funding through a combination of research assistantships (RA) and teaching assistantships (TA) for at least four years. The anticipated start date is summer 2027, with the possibility of beginning in fall 2027. Applications received before October 30, 2026 will receive priority review, although the position will remain open until filled. Funded PhD Research in Soil Biogeochemistry The doctoral research will focus on soil organic matter responses to environmental change and management. Students will have the opportunity to develop their own research projects in consultation with the lab and research collaborators. Potential research areas include: Soil organic matter vulnerability under global environmental change Effects of land management on soil organic matter Plants, microbes, and minerals as drivers of soil organic matter cycling Soil biogeochemical mechanisms Process-based ecosystem and soil models Climate change and terrestrial ecosystems Interactions between soil processes and environmental change The research direction is intended to provide flexibility for the doctoral student to develop a project aligned with their scientific interests while contributing to the broader research goals of the Soil CORE Lab. PhD Funding and Graduate Assistantships The selected PhD student will be supported by a combination of research assistantships and teaching assistantships for at least four years. This funding structure provides a sustained graduate research opportunity for students seeking doctoral study in soil science, biogeochemistry, ecosystem ecology, and related environmental disciplines. The position also offers a flexible work schedule and the capacity for partial remote work as needed to meet the student’s needs. Applicants should carefully review the graduate program and assistantship requirements when preparing their applications, as the announcement itself does not specify a fixed stipend amount. Who Is Eligible to Apply? The ideal candidate will hold a Master’s degree and have an academic or research background relevant to soil science, ecosystem ecology, global change science, environmental management, or related areas. Candidates should demonstrate: A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field Strong written communication skills Strong oral communication skills Interest in soil biogeochemistry Experience in scientific research Field, laboratory, and/or computational research skills Ability to work independently Ability to work effectively as part of a team Research experience may have been obtained through professional research, university projects, fieldwork, laboratory work, computational research, or classroom-based scientific activities. Importantly, candidates who do not meet every preferred qualification are still encouraged to apply if they demonstrate strong potential and genuine interest in soil biogeochemistry. Applicants who do not yet hold an M.S. degree can also consider the separately advertised funded M.S. position in the Soil CORE Lab. What Will the PhD Student Do? The doctoral student will be expected to take an active role in developing and conducting their research project. Key activities will include: Designing and implementing independent research Investigating soil organic matter responses to environmental change Developing field, laboratory, and/or computational approaches Participating in laboratory meetings Attending college seminars and academic activities Preparing manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals Presenting research at scientific conferences Participating in community outreach Communicating research with producers and the general public The emphasis on outreach provides an opportunity for the student to develop skills in communicating scientific research beyond academic audiences. Research Training and Professional Development The Soil CORE Lab will provide doctoral students with research guidance and opportunities to develop both empirical and computational skills. According to the position announcement, the PI will provide transparent expectations, regular feedback on progress, research guidance, and professional development resources relevant to the student’s career goals. This approach is intended to help students develop as independent researchers while gaining experience in scientific communication, publication, conference presentations, and community engagement. Diversity and Inclusive Research Environment The Soil CORE Lab has stated a commitment to advancing diversity in the Earth sciences and welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds. The announcement specifically encourages applications regardless of race, color, nationality, creed, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, religion, age, economic class, ability, military status, family or marital status, pregnancy, political ideas, or genetic information. PhD Start Date and Application Deadline The anticipated start date is summer 2027, although a fall 2027 start may be possible if needed. The key application date is: Priority review deadline: October 30, 2026 Applications received before October 30 will receive priority consideration. However, the position will remain open until it is filled, so interested candidates should not necessarily wait until the final stages of the recruitment process. How to Apply Interested applicants should complete the application form provided by the Soil CORE Lab: Application form: https://forms.gle/igbkefTMjLfLksuq8 Applicants should present their academic and research background clearly and explain their interest in soil biogeochemistry, soil organic matter, climate and environmental change, ecosystem science, or related research areas. Prospective students should also consider how their previous field, laboratory, computational, or academic research experience could contribute to the proposed doctoral research. Final Thoughts This funded PhD position at the University of Wyoming provides an opportunity for graduate researchers to investigate important questions surrounding soil organic matter, climate change, land management, ecosystem processes, and biogeochemistry. With at least four years of RA and TA support, opportunities for research publication and conference presentations, professional development, and community outreach, the position is particularly relevant to students planning careers in environmental research, academia, ecosystem science, soil science, or related fields. Eligible candidates interested in developing independent research in soil biogeochemistry should prepare their applications ahead of the October 30, 2026 priority review deadline. 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