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Soil Microbial Ecology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Pennsylvania State University

$19 - $26/hr

Our research focuses on microbial ecology and microbiome research. Examples of topics include ... A plus would be direct experience working with plants, soil, and microbial culturing. This position ...

State of Louisiana

RESEARCH ASSISTANT

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$45K - $65K/yr

... soil cores. Proficiency in statistical analysis and data management, with experience using R or ... science, Microbial Ecology, Oceanography, Chemistry, or a related field. Experience This is an ...

All JobsSoil Microbial Ecology Jobs

Soil Microbial Ecology information

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$36K

$43.7K

$70K

How much do soil microbial ecology jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for soil microbial ecology in the United States is $43,669.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,500.00 and $38,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in Soil Microbial Ecology, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Soil Microbial Ecology often face challenges such as variability in soil samples, difficulties in isolating specific microorganisms, and the complexity of analyzing vast amounts of genomic data. Addressing these issues typically involves careful experimental design, utilization of advanced molecular techniques, and collaboration with bioinformaticians to manage and interpret data. Working within interdisciplinary teams, staying updated on the latest research methods, and participating in fieldwork are also essential to successfully navigate these challenges and contribute to meaningful scientific discoveries.

What is the difference between Soil Microbial Ecology vs Soil Microbiologist?

AspectSoil Microbial EcologySoil Microbiologist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Microbiology, Ecology, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Microbiology, Soil Science, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, field sites, environmental agenciesLaboratories, research institutions, agricultural settings
Industry UsageAcademic research, environmental consulting, conservationSoil testing labs, agricultural companies, environmental agencies

Soil Microbial Ecology focuses on understanding interactions within soil microbial communities and their roles in ecosystems. Soil Microbiologists often perform specific laboratory analyses and testing related to soil health. While both roles require microbiology knowledge, Soil Microbial Ecology emphasizes ecological relationships, whereas Soil Microbiologists focus on soil testing and analysis.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Soil Microbial Ecologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Soil Microbial Ecologist, you need a solid background in microbiology, ecology, soil science, and often a graduate degree in a related field. Familiarity with molecular biology techniques, bioinformatics software, and laboratory equipment for DNA/RNA extraction and sequencing is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating on research projects and sharing findings. These competencies are vital for conducting rigorous research, interpreting complex data, and advancing understanding of soil ecosystems.

What is soil microbial ecology?

Soil microbial ecology is the study of microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, and archaea, that live in soil and their interactions with each other, plants, and the environment. These microorganisms play critical roles in processes like nutrient cycling, decomposition, and soil health. Researchers in this field investigate how factors like climate, land use, and pollution affect soil microbial communities. Understanding soil microbial ecology helps improve agricultural practices, conserve ecosystems, and address environmental challenges.
More about Soil Microbial Ecology jobs
What cities are hiring for Soil Microbial Ecology jobs? Cities with the most Soil Microbial Ecology job openings:
What states have the most Soil Microbial Ecology jobs? States with the most job openings for Soil Microbial Ecology jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Soil Microbial Ecology jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Soil Microbial Ecology jobs are:
Soil Microbial Ecology jobs near you
Infographic showing various Soil Microbial Ecology job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $43,669 per year, or $21 per hour.
Postdoctoral Researcher in Soil Biogeochemistry

Postdoctoral Researcher in Soil Biogeochemistry

University System of New Hampshire

Durham, NC

$47K - $64K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

University System Of New Hampshire rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

47th of 612 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Summary
Operating Title Postdoctoral Researcher in Soil Biogeochemistry Long Classification Title Campus Location Durham Department UNH COLSA Natural Resources & the Environment Summary of Position
This is a two-year position on the UNH Frost Sensing (FroSen) Project which aims to understand the spatial and temporal heterogeneity of soil frost and to examine how changing soil frost conditions affect ecosystem processes such as soil carbon and nutrient retention. This position will focus specifically on monitoring soil respiration continuously during winter as freeze-thaw occurs and to quantify both soil carbon and nitrogen retention during winter and the ensuing growing season to provide unique insights into how soil frost and freeze-thaw cycles affect these ecological processes.
Additional Job Information
Valid drivers license is required to drive to research sites
Posting Number PF0787FY23 Acceptable Minimum Qualifications
The candidate is expected to have strong interests and experience in soil biogeochemistry, with expertise in soil sampling, processing, and biogeochemical measurements (i.e., soil physical and chemical assays; soil carbon and nitrogen cycling; microbial biomass, activity, and community characterization) and data analysis (multivariate statistics and bioinformatic analyses). The candidate will be expected to work independently, but also cooperatively with other members of the FroSen team. A Ph.D. degree in ecology, ecosystem science, natural resources, soil science, or related field, along with relevant research experience is required. Ability to work outside in New England winter conditions is required.
Additional Preferred Qualifications
Molecular analysis for soil microbial community characterization (DNA extraction, sequencing, bioinformatic analyses)
Salary Information
Salary is complemented by a comprehensive benefits package which includes medical, dental, retirement, tuition, and paid time off.
Quick Link to Posting https://usnh-sb.peopleadmin.com/postings/56593 Percent Time Information (FTE) 1.00 Faculty Information Non-Renewable If Renewable or Number of years, please specify Type of Position Post Doctorate
Posting Details
Posting Date 07/11/2023 Open Until Filled Yes Closing Date Interested Internal Candidates Exist? No Appointment Type Grant Funded If TERM position with benefits, indicate projected end date 12/31/2025 Departmental Information This position is responsible for the supervision of Students Special Requirements A background check will be required as a condition of employment. EEO Statement

The University System of New Hampshire is an Equal Opportunity/Equal Access/Affirmative Action employer. The University System is committed to creating an environment that values and supports diversity and inclusiveness across our campus communities and encourages applications from qualified individuals who will help us achieve this mission. The University System prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or marital status.

Special Instructions to Applicants
INTERFOLIO USERS: If using Interfolio to submit letters of reference, please follow the special instructions at this link: https://pa-hrsuite-production.s3.amazonaws.com/2729/docs/126635.pdf.
Instructions for reference providers can be access at: https://support.interfolio.com/m/29600/l/266335-submit-a-letter-of-recommendation-to-interfolio.
Institution Information
The University of New Hampshire is an R1 Carnegie classification research institution providing comprehensive, high-quality undergraduate and graduate programs of distinction. UNH is located in Durham on a 188-acre campus, 60 miles north of Boston and 8 miles from the Atlantic coast and is convenient to New Hampshire's lakes and mountains. There is a student enrollment of 13,000 students, with a full-time faculty of over 600, offering 90 undergraduate and more than 70 graduate programs. The University actively promotes a dynamic learning environment in which qualified individuals of differing perspectives, life experiences, and cultural backgrounds pursue academic goals with mutual respect and shared inquiry.
The UNH Diversity Resource Guide with information and programming available in the seacoast area, New Hampshire, and the region can be found here: https://www.unh.edu/hr/diversity-resource-guide

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