Post-Doctoral Scholar for Microplastics Research in Wastewater, Stormwater, Freshwater

Essential Functions

The post-doctoral scholar will coordinate, lead and perform laboratory and field work to evaluate the occurrence, distribution and fate of microplastics in engineered and natural freshwater systems. Research activities will include extensive field sampling, sample processing, microplastics analysis primarily using FT-IR, improving microplastics sampling, processing and detection methodologies, and synthesizing results in meaningful ways to advance the knowledge of microplastics in engineered and natural systems. Under the supervision of principal investigators Dr. Tania Datta and Dr. Justin Murdock, the scholar is expected to mentor and work collaboratively with graduate and undergraduate students, write reports and manuscripts for peer review and publication, and develop practical ideas to continue the research into the future. The scholar is also expected to present the research at local, regional, national, and/or international meetings.

Minimum Qualifications

• PhD in Environmental Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Biology or related field
• Prior experience in microplastics research
• Keen attention to details
• Excellent technical writing and oral communication skills
• Excellent organizational skills
• Able to work in an interdisciplinary and diverse team
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office software (Excel, Word, and PowerPoint) and other data analysis and visualization software

Preferred Qualifications

Experience working with FT-IR, wastewater and fresh water samples, water quality analysis, experimental design, and a statistical background. Demonstrated potential to publish results in peer-reviewed journals.

Work Hours

Compensation and Benefits