Most of the work will focus on the bulk elemental cycles and reactions between Fe and S in the treatment process, but the implications of wastewater treatment on Hg speciation and solubility will also be investigated. The postdoctoral researcher will be expected to work in collaboration with industrial partners, partners at public agencies, and academic colleagues. The successful candidate will be able to disseminate the research results through journal publications and conference presentations. Occasional multi-day travel will be required.
Terms of employment:
This appointment is a 100%-time, 12-month position. It is anticipated this position will be in place for two years. An initial appointment period runs 1 year, with renewal for the second-year dependent upon successful performance and availability of funds. This is a professional training position. Professional training positions are normally limited to 2-4 years.
Job Duties/Responsibilities:
- Laboratory research – Coordinate preliminary and experimental column tests assessing water treatment performance. Collect, prepare, and analyze samples for water chemistry and sulfur speciation. Analysis, interpretation, and reporting of experimental data. (40%)
- Field work - Deployment and installation of field equipment, collection of samples from treatment systems in the field, troubleshooting of field equipment. (20%)
- Treatment system design - Coordinate with collaborating practitioners to modify the design and configuration of treatment systems based on findings from laboratory tests and Phase 1 field investigations. Coordinate with project partners to characterize waste materials to evaluate reaction mechanisms and meet industry needs. (20%)
- Other Responsibilities – Disseminate results of laboratory and field experiments through presentations at conferences and peer-reviewed publications. Assist with general laboratory management, mentorship of laboratory personnel with less experience, and preparation of grant proposals. (20%)
Physical Requirements:
- Physical ability to work long hours outdoors, sometimes in inclement weather, and ability to lift 50 pounds.
Required Qualifications:
- Ph.D. degree in Environmental Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related areas with a solid background in water/wastewater treatment, Fe-S chemistry, process engineering.
- Strong track record of refereed journal publications.
- Proven ability to work independently.
- Strong written and oral communication skills.
- Solid knowledge of advanced modeling approaches for analyzing mass transport in complex environmental systems is highly desirable.
- Physical ability to work long hours outdoors, sometimes in inclement weather, and ability to lift 50 pounds.
- Valid driver’s license and clean driving record.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Proficient in engineering software.
- Student mentoring experiences.
- Teaching experience at the undergraduate level.
- Industrial experiences or willingness to work with industry.
To Apply
Please visit the UMN employment listing and search for: 339832