Opportunities at Other Institutions

Grants

The U.S. Department of Agriculture

National Research Initiative Competitive Grants Program

Description

The National Research Initiative (NRI) Competitive Grants Program supports research, education, and extension projects that address key problems of National, regional, and multi-state importance in sustaining all components of agriculture (farming, ranching, forestry, aquaculture, rural communities, human nutrition, processing, etc.). Emerging agricultural issues of national concern, including food safety, honey bee colony collapse disorder (CCD), and sustainable alternative energy resources, drives NRI programs to advance scientific discoveries. Providing this support requires that NRI advance fundamental sciences in support of agriculture and coordinate opportunities to build on these discoveries. Building on these discoveries will necessitate new efforts in education and extension that deliver science-based knowledge to people, allowing them to make informed practical decisions. In FY 2008, the NRI will accept applications for fundamental research, mission-linked research, and integrated research, education, and extension projects. Application deadlines vary by program. For additional information, review each program description in the Request for Applications (RFA) for program priorities, funding levels, and application deadlines.

Link to Full Announcement

Fiscal Year 2008 - National Research Initiative Competitive Grants Program

If you have difficulty accessing the full announcement electronically, please contact:

CSREES Help Desk
Phone: 202-401-5048

Business hours are M-F, 7:00 am -5:00 pm ET, excluding Federal holidays

For questions regarding this request for applications

National Science Foundation

Microbial Genome Sequencing Program

Summary

As a collaborative, interagency effort, the National Science Foundation (NSF), and the Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service (CSREES) of the U.S. Department of Agriculture invite research proposals (i) to support high-throughput sequencing of the genomes of microorganisms (including viruses, bacteria, archaea, fungi, oomycetes, protists and agriculturally important nematodes) and (ii) to develop and implement strategies, tools and technologies to make currently available genome sequences more valuable to the user community. The availability of genome sequences provides the foundation for understanding how microorganisms function and live, and how they interact with their environments and with other organisms. The sequences are expected to be available to and used by a community of investigators to address issues of scientific and societal importance including:

• novel aspects of microbial biochemistry, physiology, metabolism, development and cellular biology;
• the diversity and the roles microorganisms play in complex ecosystems and in global geochemical cycles;
• the impact that microorganisms have on the productivity and sustainability of agriculture and natural resources (e.g., forestry, soil and water), and on the safety and quality of the nation's food supply; and
• the organization and evolution of microbial genomes, and the mechanisms of transmission, exchange and reshuffling of genetic information.

A Microbial Genomics Workshop is held annually; all current awardees in this interagency program are expected to attend.

Anticipated Type of Award:  Standard Grant or Continuing Grant

Estimated Number of Awards:    15 to  20  

Anticipated Funding Amount:   $10,000,000  Approximately $10 million is anticipated ($5 million of NSF and $5 million of USDA funds), pending availability of funds, with most awards ranging between $100,000 to $2,500,000 total, for periods of up to three years.

Proposals may only be submitted by the following:

• Organization Limit:

  NSF Eligibility Criteria:

  Proposals are invited from academic institutions located and accredited in the U.S., U.S. non-profit research organizations, and consortia of such organizations with appropriate research and educational facilities. A proposal from a multi-organizational consortium must be submitted by the lead organization as a single proposal. When a consortium of eligible individuals or organizations submits a proposal, a single principal investigator must be designated as the project director (PD) and a single organization must accept overall management responsibility, including the management of intellectual property, that may result from the proposed research. 

  Simultaneous submission of proposals to this program and another federal agency is permissible with prior written approval of the appropriate program officers at each agency involved. Proposers are encouraged to establish international collaborations where appropriate.  It is anticipated that foreign agencies will support the offshore activities of these programs.  Under most circumstances, the NSF component of this program will not make awards or allow subcontracts to non-U.S. institutions.

  CSREES Eligibility Criteria:

  The source of CSREES funds for the FY 2008 Microbial Genome Sequencing Program is the National Research Initiative (NRI) Competitive Grants Program.  Except where otherwise prohibited by law, State agricultural experiment stations, all colleges and universities, other research institutions and organizations, Federal agencies, national laboratories, private organizations, or corporations, and individuals are eligible to apply for and to receive a competitive grant.  Faculty at small and mid-sized academic institutions with limited institutional success and faculty at institutions in USDA Experimental Program for Stimulating Competitive Research (EPSCoR) entities are encouraged to apply (for definitions of small and mid-sized institutions and for EPSCoR eligibility see Part II, C., 2.(c) of the FY 2008 NRI Request for Applications at http://www.csrees.usda.gov/funding/rfas/nri_rfa.html.  Applications from scientists at non-U.S. organizations will not be accepted.  Award recipients may subcontract to organizations not eligible to apply, provided such organizations are necessary for the conduct of the project.

Full Proposal Deadline(s) (due by 5 p.m. proposer's local time):

February 19, 2008

General inquiries regarding this program should be made to:

• Matthew Kane, Program Director, Division of Molecular and Cellular Biosciences, NSF, 655 S, telephone: (703) 292-7186, fax: (703) 292-9061, email: mkanensf.gov

• Lita Proctor, NSF Co-Team Leader, Division of Molecular and Cellular Biosciences, NSF, 655S, telephone: (703) 292-5190, fax: (703) 292-9061, email: lproctornsf.gov

• Patrick Dennis, Program Director, Division of Molecular and Cellular Biosciences, NSF, 655 S, telephone: (703) 292-7145, fax: (703) 292-9061, email: pdennisnsf.gov

• Ming Lei, Program Director, Division of Molecular and Cellular Biosciences, NSF, 655S, telephone: (703) 292-7144, fax: (703) 292-9061, email: mleinsf.gov

• Richard McCourt, Program Director, Division of Biological Infrastructure, NSF, 615 N, telephone: (703) 292-8470, fax: (703) 292-9063, email: rmccourtnsf.gov

• Ann Lichens-Park, National Program Leader, CSREES, U.S. Department of Agriculture, telephone: (202) 401-6460, fax: (202) 401-6488, email: aparkcsrees.usda.gov

• Daniel Jones, National Program Leader, CSREES, U.S. Department of Agriculture, telephone: (202) 401-6854, email: djonescsrees.usda.gov

For questions related to the use of FastLane, contact:

• FastLane Help Desk, telephone: 1-800-673-6188; e-mail: fastlanensf.gov.

For questions relating to Grants.gov contact:

• Grants.gov Contact Center: If the Authorized Organizational Representatives (AOR) has not received a confirmation message from Grants.gov within 48 hours of submission of application, please contact via telephone: 1-800-518-4726; e-mail: supportgrants.gov.

Employment

Auburn University

Assistant/Associate Professor

The Biosystems Engineering Department at Auburn University is seeking candidates for the position of Assistant/Associate Professor with expertise in bioenergy and bioproducts. The expected start date is August 16, 2008. Women and Minorities are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities:

This is a 9 month tenure-track position with 50% research and 50% instruction responsibilities. The individual may supplement his/her nine month salary through research grants and summer teaching.  The individual will be responsible for  the development of a strong, externally-funded and nationally recognized research program in one or more aspects of bioenergy and bioproducts engineering (feedstock handling, storage and transportation; processing and pretreatment of agricultural and forest products for bioenergy; bioenergy conversion technologies that include thermochemical or biochemical approaches; or development of new bioproducts and biomaterials).  The individual will be expected to collaborate with other faculty in the department and college along with researchers in Auburn University’s Center for Bioenergy and Bioproducts.  Teaching responsibilities will include teaching courses in bioenergy and bioproducts with applications in broader aspects of biosystems engineering, leadership in the senior capstone design experience, as well as other bioenergy and bioproducts offerings to be developed in the future.  In addition, the successful candidate will provide academic advising and career counseling for biosystems engineering students; transfer results of the scholarly program through recognized and peer reviewed outlets; and provide leadership to the profession through state and national professional society participation.  Service to the department, college and university are expected.

Qualifications:

Minimum qualifications include an earned Ph.D. from an accredited institution in Biosystems, Biological, Agricultural Engineering or a closely related engineering field by the expected position start date.   Candidates should have documented experience and/or the ability to conduct research and teaching in bioenergy and bioproducts.  Documented evidence of individual and/or collaborative research resulting in peer reviewed publications is required. Candidates should be able to demonstrate the ability to work cooperatively with colleagues across disciplines, develop a collaborative research program, and teach undergraduate and graduate level courses. The successful candidate should possess excellent interpersonal skills to effectively interact with diverse audiences. The successful candidate must demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively in English. The successful candidate must meet eligibility requirements for work in the United States at the time the appointment is scheduled to begin and continue working legally for the proposed term of employment.  Desirable qualifications include: professional engineering registration, industrial experience, and teaching or training experience and previous work related to bioenergy and bioproducts engineering.

Application:

Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience.  Applicants must submit a letter of application, current vita, copies of all transcripts, and a list of three to five references with contact information to:

Dr. Oladiran O. Fasina
Chair, Search Committee
Biosystems Engineering Department
200 Tom Corley Bldg
Auburn University
Auburn, AL 36849-5417
Phone: (334) 844-3574
Fax: (334) 844-3530
E-mail: fasinooauburn.edu

Only complete application materials will be considered.  The search will continue until the position is filled, but to ensure consideration for the position, applicants are encouraged to apply by November 30, 2007. The expected position start date is August 16, 2008.

The University:

Auburn University is a land-grant institution with a student enrollment of more than 22,000. The University provides instruction in approximately 70 academic departments and maintains graduate research and public service programs of a broad scope. The University is located in the city of Auburn in east-central Alabama near the metropolitan areas of Montgomery and Birmingham, Alabama, and Columbus and Atlanta, Georgia.

The Department:

The Department of Biosystems Engineering consists of 11 full-time faculty who apply engineering to solve problems in biological systems through innovative and creative research, teaching and outreach activities. More information can be found at www.eng.auburn.edu/bio/

Auburn University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer

University Of California, Davis: Bioenergy-Related Faculty Positions

The Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering is seeking two of 12 faculty positions associated with the Energy for the Future initiative at UC Davis.

Bioconversion Engineer, Assistant Professor

The successful candidate will conduct research on the conversion of plant biomass to biofuels and higher valued biomaterials. Research areas may include structural and functional modeling of enzymatic hydrolysis, design of cellulose-hydrolyzing enzymes and their production, and/or development of robust microorganisms capable of tolerating extreme environments and using mixtures of sugars released upon biomass pretreatment and hydrolysis. The position requires a strong background in both engineering and the biological sciences, and a Ph.D. or equivalent degree in an appropriate discipline. Open until filled, but to assure consideration, applications must be received by 20 November 2006.

Biofuels Engineer, Assistant Professor.

The successful candidate will conduct research on the production and/or use of fuels from biomass - particularly liquid fuels and hydrogen. Research may be in the areas of physiochemical, thermochemical, photobiological, and/or biochemical conversion of biomass into biofuels; catalytic processing; biofuel separation and purification; biorefinery integration; investigation and modifications of physical and chemical properties of the biofuel from the point of view of ease of storage, handling, delivery, thermal value and efficient combustion; effect of the type of biomass on the fuel characteristics; effect of biofuels on engine and vehicle performance and emission characteristics; system modeling; life cycle evaluation; and investigation of overall economics of biofuel production and utilization. The position requires strong background in engineering and a Ph.D. or equivalent degree in an appropriate discipline. Open until filled, but to assure consideration, applications must be received by 15 December 2006.

Complete descriptions for both positions and instructions for the online application process are available at energy.ucdavis.edu. The University of California is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture Research Service: Post-doc position in thermochemical conversion of biomass

Research Chemist/Chemical Engineer/Agricultural Engineer

The position is located in the Crop Conversion Science & Engineering Research Unit of the Eastern Regional Research Center. It involves conducting research to improve thermochemical processes for conversion of agricultural biomass into renewable fuels such as pyrolytic oils (bio-oil); using research methods for GC/MS-HPLC analyses of the said oils and further conversion and purification into clean hydrogen and valuable coproducts.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: A Ph.D. in chemistry, engineering or a related degree is required. The candidate should have knowledge of various branches of chemistry, engineering, physical methods of structural analysis, process engineering and standard analytical testing methods. An organic chemist or chemical engineer with organic chemistry background and experiences is desirable.

INFORMATION ON SALARY AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES FOR POSTDOCTORAL POSITIONS is available at: http://www.afm.ars.usda.gov/divisions/hrd/hrdhomepage/vacancy/pd962.html

INFORMATION ON EMPLOYEE BENEFITS is available at: http://www.usajobs.opm.gov/ei61.asp

FOR SPECIFIC INFORMATION ON THE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THIS POSITION OR TO SUBMIT AN APPLICATION, CONTACT:
Dr. Akwasi (Kwesi) Boateng
USDA/ARS/NAA
Eastern Regional Research Center
600 E. Mermaid Lane
Wyndmoor , PA 19038
Phone: 215-233-6493
Fax: 215-233-6406
Email: aboatengerrc.ars.usda.gov

The U.S. Department of Agriculture Research Service

Research Agricultural Engineer or Research Chemical Engineer

SALARY RANGE: 63,417.00 - 115,848.00 USD per year

OPEN PERIOD: Wednesday, August 22, 2007
to Monday, October 01, 2007

SERIES & GRADE: GS-0890,0893-12/13/14 POSITION INFORMATION: Full-Time  Permanent 

DUTY LOCATIONS:   1 vacancy - Corvallis, OR 

WHO MAY BE CONSIDERED:
Applications will be accepted from US Citizens, from current and former competitive service Federal employees, and people eligible under special hiring authorities. 

JOB SUMMARY:
Find Solutions to Agricultural Problems that Affect Americans Every Day, From Field to Table
Serves as a research engineer charged with planning and developing a research project that will identify and adapt approaches to convert lignocellulosic agricultural residues into energy products at the farm, or near-farm scale to produce biopower or transportation fuels for on-farm uses, which are compatible within annual farm operation cycles. 

Visit website:  http://www.ars.usda.gov/main/site_main.htm?modecode=53-58-00-00

U.S. citizenship is required and will be verified prior to entrance on duty.
 
Send Mail to:

Department Of Agriculture
USDA-REE-ARS-HRD/#ARS-X7W-0334
5601 Sunnyside Avenue
Beltsville, MD 20705-5106
Email: SCIRECRUITARS.USDA.GOV
Fax: 301-504-1535

For questions about this job:

Cindy Prucha
Phone: 301-504-1581
Fax: 301-504-1535
TDD: 202-855-1234
Email: SCIRECRUITARS.USDA.GOV

University of Florida

Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

The Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the University
of Florida is seeking to hire up to 5 tenured/tenure-track faculty at the
Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, and Professor levels. We seek
candidates in all areas of mechanical and aerospace engineering who can
synergistically contribute to and expand on existing activities and strengths
in the Department and College. Areas of current interest include
atmospheric/space flight mechanics, dynamics and controls, energy, and
manufacturing, including micro/nano-manufacturing. Candidates must
possess an earned Ph.D. in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering or a
closely related discipline; and have the ability to create and sustain
internationally recognized research programs in their fields of expertise.
The MAE Department currently has 46 faculty, approximately 275 graduate
students, and annual expenditures in excess of $20 million. Persons joining
the Department will find outstanding facilities, a collaborative and collegial
work environment, and a strong dedication to diversity and excellence in
research and education. Potential applicants seeking more information are
encouraged to visit our website at http://www.mae.ufl.edu.

Candidates should submit applications electronically to Dr. David Hahn,
Search Committee Chair, at maesearchmae.ufl.edu. Applications should
include 1) a cover letter briefly outlining the candidate’s qualifications,
research and educational interests, and potential collaborative activities.
Candidates at the Assistant Professor level should also include a 3-5 year
research and teaching plan, 2) a detailed resume, and 3) the names and full
contact information for at least three references. The search committee will
begin screening of applicants on January 1, 2007, and will continue to
accept applications until all positions are filled. The University of Florida is
dedicated to building a culturally diverse faculty and staff. We strongly
encourage minorities, women, and members of other under-represented
groups to apply. The University of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Genencor, International

Applications Associate (Chemical Engineer)
Biomass

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Perform lignocellulosic biomass research/application experiments, including preparing experimental plan, and conducting and reporting studies on projects assigned by the project leader.

Must have detailed knowledge on design and analysis of thermo-chemical and biochemical reactors, instrumentation, and process control. Must understand flow characteristics of reactors, flow modeling, heat & mass transfer, agitations, aerations. Must have detailed knowledge on the kinetics of enzyme-catalyzed reactions. Must understand batch, fed-batch, and continuous operations of hydrolysis and fermentation and their kinetics.

Perform bench scale enzymatic hydrolysis & fermentation of various pretreated lignocellulosic biomass. Design and develop advanced processes to scale up of enzymatic hydrolysis & fermentation of biomass materials. Must be capable in translating laboratory, pilot, and plant scale data. Manage routine activities, including experimental record keeping, data analysis, and reporting. Participate in applicable biomass research symposium/conferences.

Requirements: PhD in Chemical Engineering/Biochemical Engineering, minimum of 2 years R&D experience, and analytical skills and computer proficiency.

If interested, please contact Mike Craig at 585-256-6940.

For more information about Genecor, please view their Web site at http://www.genencor.com/cms/connect/genencor/jobs_and_careers/.

Applications Associate (Enzymologist)
Biomass

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Perform lignocellulosic biomass research/application experiments, including preparing experimental plan, and conducting and reporting studies on projects assigned by the project leader. Perform protein separations, purifications, characterizations, and quantifications.

Develop standard assay for total protein determination. Develop assays to determine specific activities of cellulases and hemicellulases. Must understand interactions between enzyme and substrate, enzymes catalytic reaction mechanisms, structure, and regulations. Must have detailed knowledge on enzyme kinetics and inhibitions.

Determine the effect of pH, temperature, substrate concentrations on enzymatic activity, hydrolysis rate and kinetics. Perform enzymatic hydrolysis/saccharification of various pretreated lignocellulosic biomass. Manage routine activities, including experimental record keeping, data analysis, and reporting. Participate in applicable biomass research symposium/conferences.

Requirements: PhD in Biochemistry/Enzymology/Microbiology, minimum of 2 years R&D experience, and analytical skills and computer proficiency.

If interested, please contact Mike Craig at 585-256-6940.

For more information about Genecor, please view their Web site at http://www.genencor.com/cms/connect/genencor/jobs_and_careers/.

Ghent University

Faculty of Bioscience Engineering

Academic position with focus on research activities

Faculty position in “Bioresources Processing”

The Faculty of Bioscience Engineering of Ghent University Belgium invites applications for a faculty position at the full professor level to start on October 1st, 2007. The faculty is particularly interested in the integral valorisation of industrial crops or waste streams of renewable resources; the optimisation and conversion technology of bioresources towards chemicals, materials or energy; the physical and thermochemical processing of biomass.

Applicants are also free to propose a field of expertise in bioresources processing, other than mentioned above, which allows a profound and multidisciplinary collaboration complementary with existing research programmes at the faculty.

Applicants must hold a PhD-degree in agricultural engineering, engineering, biology, chemistry or a closely related field from an accredited institution, and have an excellent scientific record in accordance to the level of the position. The applicant needs to have the ability to teach in Dutch or have the drive to learn Dutch in order to teach some courses in the future.

The successful applicant will have a proven record in establishing a funded and independent research program.

Applicants should include a CV, a summary of research accomplishments; a research strategy (3 to 5 pages) and a brief statement of teaching interests.

Profile of the candidate
-  PhD degree in  engineering, biosciences or a closely related field and postdoctoral experience
- excellent scientific record
- international scientific visibility and track record
- good teaching abilities;
-  knowledge of new teaching techniques is advantageous.

Function description
- performing high level multidisciplinary research;
- teaching courses related to renewable resources in the future;
- providing internal and external services to universities and companies.

Prof. dr. ir. Christian Stevens
Research group SynBioC
Department of Organic Chemistry
Faculty of Bioscience Engineering
Ghent University
Coupure links 653, B-9000 Gent
BELGIUM
tel: +32-(0)9-264 59 57
fax: +32-(0)9-264 62 43
mobile: +32-(0)497 29 26 72
e-mail: Chris.StevensUGent.be
URL: http://www.Synbioc.UGent.be
 

University of Guelph

Premiers Research Chair in Biomaterials and Transportation

The Department of Plant Agriculture and the Ontario Agricultural College at the University of Guelph invite applications for the Premiers Research Chair in Biomaterials and Transportation. This is a fully endowed, 12- year Chair that will continue as a full faculty position at the University and is one of the Ontario Research Chairs established by the provincial government to strengthen Ontarios economic advantage and create a culture of innovation in the province.

This exciting new field of research focuses on revolutionalizing the use of agricultural products in developing novel biofibres, bioplastics, biocomposites and biofuels for non-traditional industrial uses. The Chair will play a leadership role in liaising with the automotive and materials industries and with university and government colleagues to develop research directions that effectively integrate agricultural and forestry based raw materials into cost-effective, performance enhanced consumer products with an emphasis on the automotive sector. The position is 90% research/extension and 10% graduate level teaching/advising.

The successful candidate will have a Ph.D. and a minimum of ten years experience in biopolymer chemistry, biomaterials science or related fields, along with documented strength within and between the areas of plant biology and materials engineering. Expertise should be demonstrated in fields such as Biochemical Engineering, Biological Materials Sciences or Bioproduct Development. He/she should be capable of interdisciplinary collaboration in the areas of chemical and structural engineering, agricultural chemistry, plant biology, and traditional and molecular plant breeding.

For over 130 years, plant agricultural scientists at the University of Guelph have broadly impacted the daily lives of growers, consumers and industry in Canada and throughout the world. Today, the Department of Plant Agriculture has recognized strengths in a broad cross-section of plant sciences and contains 37 faculty members, 80 staff and between 80-100 graduate students. It is supported in its goal of redefining plant agriculture through complex, diverse and collaborative research programs, access to a variety of field research stations, modern lab space and state-of-the-art equipment.

The review of applications will commence in late May and continue until an appropriate candidate is found. The University is committed to an employment equity program. A statement of interest, curriculum vitae, and contact information for three referees (who will not be contacted without the applicants consent) should be submitted in confidence to the Universitys search consultant:

Laverne Smith & Associates Inc.
1 Yonge Street, Suite 1801
Toronto, ON M5E 1W7
resumeslavernesmith.com
Premier's Research Chair in Biomaterials and Transportation

Iowa Renewable Fuels Association

Renewable Fuels Training Coordinator

The purpose of this position is to assess, develop, market and deliver multiple high-quality Renewable Fuels training programs to meet the varied needs of the communities, businesses, and students served by WITCC.

• Bachelor’s degree in related field.
• Related work experience. 
• Valid driver’s license.

Responsibilities include:

• Assessing the educational and training needs of the community and businesses.
• Developing and manage curriculum and assist in producing the College catalog, training schedules, and other related publications.
• Contacting instructors and arrange for equipment and supplies.
• Recruiting and advise students on training programs and curriculum.
• Submiting courses for approval and monitor budget and progress for each course.
• Monitoring course registration to ensure sufficient class size.
• Verifying or certify student course completion.
• Supervising and evaluate trainers/instructors.
• Working with department in setting annual educational program and budget goals.
• Serving as instructor or adjunct faculty as required.
• Using excellent communication and human relations skills.
• Using database applications to create and manage files maintaining confidentiality.

This is a full-time, grade 8, administrative position.  Salary is commensurate with education and experience.  Benefits include health, dental, long-term disability and group life insurance; retirement, tuition waiver; paid vacation, sick leave and holidays.

Minorities and bi-lingual candidates are encouraged to apply. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.  A completed application will include 1) completed WITCC Application for Employment form; 2) current resume; 3) letter stating qualifications, and 4) copy of college transcripts.  An application form may be requested from the Human Resources office or through the www.witcc.edu/jobs web page.  Applications should be completed and returned to:
 
Human Resources Office
Western Iowa Tech Community College
4647 Stone Avenue, P. O. Box 5199, Sioux City, IA  51102-5199
(712) 274-6400; Fax:  (712) 274-6412
In Iowa 1-800-352-4649; e-mail: hrwitcc.edu

KEMA

Numerous Positions

KEMA is looking to fill a number of vacancies. Learn more about the company below:

KEMA started life in 1927 as the Dutch electricity industry’s Arnhem-based test house. Originally just an abbreviation of the company’s full Dutch name, the letters K-E-M-A have since come to stand for much more than the testing of electrical equipment. While electrical safety testing and certification are still among KEMA’s core activities, today’s globally active company provides a host of independent applied research and consultancy services via an international network of subsidiaries and agencies. The consistent theme that unites these diverse activities is risk reduction. Almost all KEMA’s services involve the minimization of risk. Through the reduction of data communication errors and leaks, for example, or through the supervision of energy infrastructure restructuring projects in countries all over the globe. But equally through the testing of high-voltage equipment and the performance of short-circuit tests in the world’s largest short-circuit lab. Similarly, research into the quality of mobile telephone networks, testing equipment in environments with a raised explosion risk, and determining the residual service life of high-voltage lines, pylons and the like all demonstrate KEMA’s commitment to the reduction of risk.

For more information about their vacancies and to apply, visit www.kema.com.

Missouri Department of Natural Resources

Senior Biomass Policy Analyst

Summary: The Missouri Department of Natural Resources is seeking candidates to analyze and recommend biomass policies for the department and the state of Missouri.  The work will focus on biomass-to-energy topics and will include evaluation of biomass-to-energy technologies for viability and economical application, policy recommendations to further the use of biomass resources for energy production, review of innovative research to identify applicability to Missouri's biomass resources, interaction with Missouri universities to influence biomass research priorities, and recruitment of companies to develop biomass energy projects in Missouri.  

The successful candidate will possess knowledge of biomass resources, excellent communication skills, ability to understand and evaluate complex technical information, ability to develop and maintain relationships with varied people in the public sector and private sector, demonstrated leadership ability, demonstrated ability to work successfully in an independent manner, and the ability to communicate department policy and direction publicly.

Experience:  Two to three years of professional experience in a biomass-related discipline or business, in which the candidate performed biomass energy analysis, would be helpful but not required.  Practical experience in the areas of agriculture, agroforestry or bio-resources is preferred.  A demonstrated ability to work cooperatively with farmers, foresters or ranchers is highly desirable.

Education:  A baccalaureate degree in one of the biological or engineering sciences is required.  An advanced degree is highly preferable.

Salary Range:  $42,000 to $48,000 annually

National Center for Appropriate Technology

Sustainable Agriculture Specialist

The National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT) is an organization whose mission is to help people use sustainbale technologies to reduce poverty, promote healthy communities and protect natural resources. For more information about NCAT, visit www.ncat.org.

QUALIFICATIONS: Minimum requirements include a B.S. or M.S. in agronomy, soils, integrated pest management, horticulture or a related field OR a combination of hands-on farming experience, education, and training which demonstartes equivalency. Fluency in written and spoken Spanish is required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES: The position requires strong communication skills including excellent writing and strong presentation skills. The ideal candiate will have experience in working with a variety of farmers from different cultural groups. The position requires familiarity with California agriculture and with related organizations and groups.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide farmers and ranchers with information and technical assistance on environmentally sound practices for agronomic and horticultural crops and livestock production.
• Liason with farm and agriculture organizations and groups that assist farmers, particularly limited-resource farmers.
• Research, write and edit publications on sustainable agriculture topics to assist clients.
• Seek out projects and opportunities to provide training in Spanish and English to immigrant farmers, new farmers and producers interested in developing more sustainable cropping and marketing systems.
• Collaborate with other staff as a member of one or more technical teams in developing written materials and projects.

SALARY AND BENEFITS: The starting salary range is $32,000 to $48,000, depending on the candidate's skills, qualifications and experience.

APPLICATION PROCESS: Applications are being accepted immediately through August 30, 2007 or until a suitable candidate can be identified. For further information or to receive an application form, contact Therese McClafferty in the Butte, MT office at (406) 494-4572, email: theresemncat.org. Send completed application material to Therese McClafferty, NCAT Personnel Office, P.O. Box 3838, Butte, MT  59702.

National Corn-to-Ethanol Research Center

Biofuels/Bioprocessing Internship

The National Corn-to-Ethanol Research Center is a pilot plant conducting work on behalf of private clients and through grant funding to ensure the continued benefits of fuel ethanol production. The Center, on the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville campus, has developed an internship/cooperative program aimed at students and recent graduates interested in gaining exposure to and experience in the biofuels/bioprocessing industry. The fuel ethanol industry in particular has a large and growing need for individuals with college degrees and hands on experience. After a one year internship at the NCERC, individuals will be well equipped to meet the needs of industry.

The NCERC is also available for laboratory and pilot plant research projects. For more information about employment or research opportunities at the NCERC, please find us on the web at www.ethanolresearch.com or contact Ethan Trepp.

Ethan Trepp, Research Engineer
National Corn to Ethanol Research Center
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
400 University Park Drive; Campus Box 1334
Edwardsville, Illinois 62025
Phone: 618-659-6737 ext. 223
Fax: 618-659-8762
Email: etreppsiue.edu

National Renewable Energy Laboratory

Postdoctoral Researchers
Requisition #: 5100-7140

Summary

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) in Golden, Colorado is the nation's primary laboratory for research, development and deployment of renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies. NREL's Applied Biology Group in the National Bioenergy Center has two openings for full time (40 hours per week) Postdoctoral Researchers. The initial appointments are for one year, with possible renewal for up to three years.

Duties

Conduct and participate in R&D relating to the production of lipids in microalgae for conversion to liquid transportation fuels. Research will focus on strain selection and engineering to improve the overall yield of triglycerides in microalgal mass culture. Perform microbiological manipulations with microalgal cells, growth experiments, yield optimization, systems biology analyses (transcriptomics, proteomics and metabolomics), genetic manipulation, product extraction and analysis, and enzyme assays. Participate in multi-disciplinary project teams with researchers of diverse backgrounds (microbiologists, molecular biologists, chemists, biochemists, engineers, and technicians) investigating and integrating a variety of approaches to increase lipid yields in microalgae. Interface with industrial and academic collaborators. Document work in laboratory notebooks, detailed technical memos and internal reports. Publish and present key findings in peer-reviewed journals and at regional, national, and international scientific meetings. Maintain exemplary attention to environmental safety and health issues.

Minimum Requirements

A recent Ph.D. (less than 3 years), in biology, biochemistry, or related discipline. Strong scientific writing skills demonstrated by experience authoring quality scientific papers. Excellent verbal/interpersonal communications skills. Ability to work collaboratively as part of a research team but also complete projects individually with limited supervision. This position requires U.S. Citizenship or U.S. Permanent Residency.

Preferred

A deep knowledge, as demonstrated by a thesis and/or publications, in one or more of the following areas: lipid biochemistry, physiology, taxonomy, molecular biology, or biotechnology of microalgae or plants. Alternatively, or in addition, a practical knowledge of applying systems biology approaches to solve biological problems is preferred.

Pre-employment drug testing required.

Submit Your Resume

Qualified candidates should e-mail their resume along with phone number, e-mail address, and postal address of three individuals who can provide recommendation to:

Beverly Maestas
NREL, Human Resources Office
Requisition #5100-7140
1617 Cole Blvd.
Golden, CO 80401
beverly_maestasnrel.gov

You will be contacted only if selected for an interview.

Please be sure to reference the requisition number for the specific position in which you are interested.

NREL is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and a drug-free workplace.

National Renewable Energy Laboratory

Senior Scientist II – Biomass Energy Feedstocks

Summary

NREL's National Bioenergy Center seeks a distinguished scientist to lead research activities to help understand how biomass feedstock composition and agricultural practices (farming, harvesting, storage and transport) affect the biochemical and thermochemical conversion of these feedstocks. The ideal candidate will have established expertise in plant based research relating to energy feedstocks.

Duties

Develop and oversee a research program to understand how biomass feedstock composition and agricultural practices (farming, harvesting, storage and transport) interact to influence the chemical and biochemical conversion of feedstocks into ethanol (pretreatment hydrolysis, enzymatic saccharification and fermentation) as well as the thermochemical conversion of the lignin-rich, non-fermentable portion of the feedstock via gasification and/or pyrolysis. Of particular short-term interest is the effect of ensilement of biomass feedstocks on downstream processing characteristics.

Specific responsibilities include:

Initiate and develop a laboratory research program, including developing project scope, overseeing junior research staff and preparing and maintaining project budgets.

Coordinate research activities at NREL with work at partner national laboratories (Idaho National Laboratory and Oak Ridge National Laboratory).

Publish work in peer-reviewed scientific journals, participate in conferences and workshops, and contribute to program development.

Provide input to other NREL researchers developing techno-economic and life cycle analyses of various agricultural practices.

Work safely and in compliance with NREL and DOE safety, environment, health, human resource and quality policies.

Minimum Requirements

Doctoral degree in agronomy, plant physiology or plant biochemistry, botany, or related field or equivalent experience. Twelve years of relevant scientific experience working in areas such as plant cell wall chemistry/biosynthesis and plant breeding (conventional and molecular approaches). Ability to develop and lead multidisciplinary research projects. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Demonstrated ability to lead research programs, as evidenced by sustained funding and publication record.

Preferred

Demonstrated record of research in a relevant area of agronomy, botany, plant physiology or related field. Some experience in the public sector research environment, particularly within the Department of Energy. Broad knowledge of agricultural principles such as soil erosion and conservation, nutrient management, carbon and nutrient cycling, natural resource conservation and sustainable agriculture. Exposure to basic principles of techno-economic and life cycle analyses. Some familiarity with biochemical and thermochemical conversion processes.

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Pre-employment drug testing required.

Submit Your Resume

Please submit your resume and cover letter by email (single document if possible), fax, or mail to:

National Renewable Energy Laboratory
Human Resources (Requisition #E5100-1544)
1617 Cole Boulevard
Golden, CO 80401
Fax: 303/384-7570
nrel_employmentnrel.gov (use only for incoming resumes and cover letters; no inquiries)
Please be sure to reference the requisition number for the specific position in which you are interested.

Navarro Research & Engineering, Inc.

Project Analyst

Description:

Navarro Research & Engineering, Inc. is recruiting for a Project Analyst to support the Golden Field Office’s DOE Office of the Biomass Program. This position requires a research professional who will assist DOE personnel in coordinating and leading the agricultural and forestry analysis and research on renewable energy and biomass development and related fields; utilize quantitative and qualitative statistical techniques to analyze information to support agency decision-makers; assist in designing and implementing evaluation methodologies, such as pre and post-award efforts for projects; assess the effectiveness of existing projects; and prepare comprehensive reports on research projects including recommendations.

Qualification Requirements:

A master's degree from an accredited college or university with specialization in agricultural or forestry economics and three years of responsible full-time experience in the appropriate field of specialization such as agricultural business or forestry business analysis and industry administration including one year of full-time experience in an administrative or research capacity in the appropriate field of specialization. Knowledge of sustainability analysis, logistics and/or environmental issues associated with agriculture and forestry. Knowledge or experience in agricultural or forestry production.

Preference will be given to candidates who have:

• Knowledge of federal and state agriculture and energy programs;

• Knowledge of project evaluation design and methodology including award processes through federal procurement;

• Knowledge of applied statistics and mathematics including but not limited to linear and multiple regression analysis;

• Excellent oral and written communication skills;

• Computer-literate with a specific knowledge of GIS, spreadsheets, databases, display programs (PowerPoint) as well as word processing.

Added preference will be given to candidates who have:

• Experience working with interdisciplinary teams of researchers, scientists and administrators;

• Demonstrated ability to work independently under tight deadlines;

• Experience working in a range of research, development, demonstration, and technology research environments;

• Familiarity with roles of federal and state governments, industries, and research universities and related industries;

• Knowledge of biomass and bioenergy industry operations for processing to liquid fuels, chemicals, and electric power.

Justin von Mizener

Recruiting Manager

Navarro Research and Engineering, Inc.
+ 669 Emory Valley Road, Oak Ridge, TN 37830
* E-Mail : justinnavarro-inc.com
( Phone : 865.220.9650
( Fax :     865.220.0222

www.navarro-inc.com

North Carolina State University

Doctoral Fellowships in Advanced Forest Biomaterials

Full financial support is available for several promising US citizens / permanent residents to obtain a Doctoral Degree in the area of Advanced Forest Biomaterial Products. This premier support package is funded by the USDA and NCSU and includes a $25,000 stipend per year, all tuition fees, and health insurance for four years. Travel expenses for a travel abroad research experience is also included.

New forest-based products for society will be a critical research area to support the inevitable need of the United States to develop sustainable and environmentally benign resources for society, to decrease the dependence on nonrenewable, fossil oil, and to improve the economics of the forestry/wood-based industry. This area of expertise is especially important now, due to the increased interest in developing alternate solutions for the replacement of fossil materials with renewable resources. A recent estimate indicates as of November 2005 one-half of the world’s total oil reserves will have been extracted and combusted or applied towards industrial uses. There has been an increasing pressure for the U.S. to decrease its foreign-dependence on petroleum-based fuels and products. It has been proposed that natural, renewable materials from plants can serve as an alternative feedstock to supply products and fuel for society. Exciting careers await people trained to lead research in this field.

Research project examples include the production of nano-composites from wood fibers, gels and absorbent materials from forest-derived polymers, the production of carbon fibers from renewable resources, advanced composites for housing, and many other exciting topics in advanced forest biomaterials.

Candidates should be interested in the science involved in the conversion of natural forest resources to advanced materials to meet societal needs. Appropriate student backgrounds include chemistry, chemical engineering, material science, wood and paper science and others.

Interested applicants should visit www.natural-resources.ncsu.edu/wps and contact Dr. Richard Venditti, Director of Graduate Programs, richard_vendittincsu.edu for more program information. For application information, please contact Ms. Melissa Rabil, Graduate Secretary, melissa_rabilncsu.edu.