Lead Institution
CCARBON – Center for Carbon Research in Tropical Agriculture (University of São Paulo)
Supervisor
Prof. Dr. Tiago O. Ferreira (ESALQ/USP)
Host Institution
ESALQ/USP, Piracicaba, São Paulo, Brazil
Fellowship
Postdoctoral fellowship funded by FEALQ (equivalent to FAPESP standard).
Stipend: R$ 12.570,00 per month
Duration
36 months (full-time dedication/40 hours per week)
Expected Start Date
Immediate
Project Title
Development of Technosols from Mining Tailings: Solutions for Low-Carbon Agriculture and Climate Change Mitigation
Abstract
This project aims to develop Technosols as sustainable solutions for low-carbon agriculture. By enhancing the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soils, these materials can improve carbon sequestration and soil restoration in degraded sandy areas. The study will investigate Fe–Ca–organic matter interactions that contribute to carbon stabilization. This approach integrates waste valorization with climate-smart soil management, supporting global efforts toward climate change mitigation and carbon neutrality.
Project Description and Objectives
The postdoctoral researcher will be primarily responsible for:
- Developing and characterizing Technosols produced from iron mining tailings and other waste under controlled and field conditions.
- Quantifying soil carbon stocks and evaluating carbon sequestration potential in Technosols compared to natural and amended soils.
- Assessing soil physical, chemical, mineralogical, and biological properties, focusing on mechanisms that promote soil aggregation and organic carbon stabilization.
- Investigating Fe–Ca–organic matter interactions using wet-chemical, spectroscopic (e.g., FTIR, XRD), and microscopic techniques to understand organo-mineral associations.
- Collaborating with an interdisciplinary team of soil scientists, geochemists, microbiologists, and plant physiologists to integrate data and develop sustainable soil restoration strategies.
Candidate Requirements
Mandatory
- PhD completed in Soil Science, Ecology, Environmental Sciences, Geography, Chemical Oceanography, or related fields.
- Willingness to reside in Piracicaba, São Paulo (Brazil).
- Proficiency in English for reading, writing, and presenting scientific results.
- Valid driver’s license.
- Proven experience in scientific research, with publications in peer-reviewed international journals and technical-scientific reports.
- Experience with waste reuse
- Ability to conduct field studies.
Desired (a plus)
- Proficiency in analytical techniques for carbon studies (wet-chemistry and spectroscopy).
- Experience in collaborative and multidisciplinary research projects.
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Application deadline
From October 17 to November 5, 2025.
How to Apply
The selection process for candidates will take place in two stages:
First stage – evaluation of the documents submitted by the candidates:
i) Curriculum summary (FAPESP model);
ii) Two letters of recommendation.
Second stage – interview.
The documents must be submitted by November 5, 2025, to the e-mail address toferreira@usp.br
Additional Information
For any questions, please contact us at: toferreira@usp.br
