Post-Doctoral Research Associate

Postdoctoral Research Associate (9546)
The minimum compensation for this position is $54,840. Final compensation will be determined based on the candidate’s experience, education, etc. 

Application review will begin June 10, 2024. The position will be open until be filled.

Natural Resource Research Institute at the University of Minnesota Duluth is seeking candidates for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position in Environmental Engineering. The postdoc researcher will work primarily with Dr. Chan Lan Chun on biogeochemical study of sulfur and mercury in a biofiltration system integrated with electrochemical process at a pilot scale, funded by the USDA Forest Service. The post-doctoral scholar will coordinate field sample collection, conduct related laboratory experiments, and be responsible for analytical measurements. They will work closely with a team of graduate students and staff researchers working on field demonstration research of the integrated bioremediation-phytoremediation system in the Great Lakes region in collaboration with federal and state agencies. In addition, depending on performance and productivity, the postdoc may be involved in other research projects in environmental biotechnology. There will be opportunities to mentor undergraduate and graduate students and contribute to writing grant proposals if they are interested in. 

This appointment is 100%-time with a salary and benefits package. The position can be renewed annually for up to three years with satisfactory progress. The successful candidate will have 1) a PhD in environmental engineering, chemical engineering, biogeology, water resources, or related fields, 2) excellent verbal and written communication skills with a strong publication track recode, 3) the ability to work both independently and on a team. A valid driver’s license and clean driving record is required to drive fleet vehicles. Experience with biogeochemical processes of sulfur and mercury or microbial electrochemical treatment system is preferred. Experience or interest in working in a field setting and pilot-scale treatment system is preferred. 

Responsibilities:

• Planning and execution of laboratory experiments (40%).
• Field work to collect samples and monitor equipment at the demonstration site (20%).
• Data processing, analysis, interpretation, and manuscript preparation (20%).
• Additional duties, including reporting, dissemination, mentorship of other group members, and manuscript preparation. (20%).

REQUIRED: 

•  Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering, Ecological Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Water Resources or related field.
• A valid driver’s license with a clean driving record is required to drive fleet vehicles.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with a strong publication track record. 
• Demonstrated ability to work both independently and on a team. 
• Physical ability and dexterity to safely perform routine laboratory work, including transporting compressed cylinders and working in a fume hood.

PREFERRED: 

• Extensive experience with biogeochemical cycling in natural and built environments.
• Experience with microbial electrochemical treatment system.
• Experience or interest in working in a field setting and pilot-scale treatment system.
• Demonstrated experience in publishing peer-reviewed scientific papers in high quality journals.
• Experience or strong interest in design and operation of bioreactor system
• Experience in working on multi-institute collaborative projects

The Natural Resources Research Institute was established by the Minnesota legislature in 1983 as an applied science and engineering research organization to inform state citizens and decision-makers while leveraging the power of the University of Minnesota. NRRI is guided by the forward-looking charter provided by the Legislature to foster the economic development of Minnesota’s natural resources in an environmentally sound manner to promote private sector employment. 

NRRI’s mission is to deliver integrated research solutions that value our resources, environment, and economy for a sustainable and resilient future. We are a mission-driven, project-focused team working to create opportunities for natural resource stewardship. With industrial-scale facilities in Duluth and Coleraine, MN, NRRI works across five strategic research platforms. These platforms address Minnesota’s soil, forest, water, and mineral resources:

• Applied Ecology and Resource Management
• Minerals and Metallurgy
• Materials and Bioeconomy
• Data Collection and Delivery
• Commercialization Services

Working at the University

At the University of Minnesota, you’ll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning.  We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services 
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefits.

Applications must be submitted online.  To be considered for this position, visit the UMN Careers website and search for the Job ID number on this post. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position. Applicants must send a cover letter detailing their interests and qualifications (as per required/preferred qualification list), full CV, and a list of at least 3 references for initial screening. Applicants should note their availability in their cover letter.

To ensure full consideration, please apply before 5/31/2024. Position will remain open until filled
Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.
To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission.  The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.  To learn more about diversity at the U:  http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

University of Minnesota, Duluth (UMD)

The University of Minnesota, Duluth (UMD) consistently ranks among the top Midwestern, regional universities in U.S. News and World Report's "America's Best Colleges" issue.

Overlooking Lake Superior, UMD provides an alternative to both large research and small liberal arts environments and attracts students looking for a personalized learning experience on a medium-sized campus of a major university.  A firm liberal arts foundation anchors a variety of traditional degree programs, as well as professional and graduate students that draw on UMD's many research institutes and labs.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America’s Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).