The National Institute for Agro-Environmental Sciences (NIAES) invites qualified applications for one position as Research Scientist (Tenure Track Researcher) on the study of the Advance in Technology for Reducing Contamination by Hazardous Trace Elements Including Arsenic in Crops
The Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC) adopted a maximum level for inorganic arsenic in polished rice of 0.2 mg/kg. The CAC has been reviewing a maximum level for inorganic arsenic in brown rice. Therefore, reducing the concentration of arsenic in rice is an urgent issue. In order to develop arsenic reduction techniques that do not harmfully affect the cadmium concentration in rice, it is necessary to elucidate the interaction between arsenic and soil solid phases, including the effect of the soil amendments on the availability of arsenic, from the standpoint of soil chemistry.
The successful candidate is expected to contribute to the development of techniques, which are easily applicable in paddy and upland fields, to reduce the crop pollution risk of hazardous trace elements including arsenic, by elucidating the physicochemical properties of hazardous trace elements, and the interaction between those elements and soil solid phases. The candidate is expected to carry out research on the behavior and bioavailability of hazardous trace elements in soils.
Candidates must have acquired a doctorate in a relevant research area by the time of their employment. Candidates must be proficient in English and must be willing to master moderate to a good level of Japanese conversation skills during their employment. Candidates must have an in-depth knowledge of the theories and experiments in soil science, plant nutrition, and hazardous trace elements including arsenic. The candidate also must have plenty of research experience in the behavior of hazardous trace elements in soil and soil solutions, evaluation of the bioavailability of these elements in soils, cultivation trials, and the speciation analysis of arsenic and cadmium. Moreover, candidates are required to possess a strong desire to work on a creative study in cooperation with other fields, and to contribute to the reduction of the hazardous trace elements in the crops.
(1) Curriculum Vitae printed on A4-size papers with a portrait photograph attached on the top page (include contact address together with e-mail address)
(2) List of publications and achievements
(3) Reprints or copies of five most significant research articles published
(4) Summary of research activities printed on two A4 pages
(5) Personal views on research after employment printed on two A4 pages
(6) Names and addresses of two persons who can provide information regarding the applicant
Principal Research Director
National Institute for Agro-Environmental Sciences
3-1-3 Kan-nondai
Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8604
Japan
Tel. +81 29 838 8143
Fax. +81 29 838 8199
E-mail: saiyou@niaes.affrc.go.jp
(1) Preliminary selection based on the submitted material
(2) Personal interview for which candidates are expected to visit NIAES at their own expense