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

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

Please read the job description carefully before applying. The essential functions are the fundamental job duties that an employee must be able to perform, with or without a reasonable accommodation. Additional job duties may be assigned as needed.

Applicants who do not fully meet the minimum qualifications or who do not fully complete the application as instructed will not be considered. Applicants are responsible for demonstrating that they possess the qualifications advertised for the position. Meeting the minimum qualifications does not assure applicants of an interview.

Position Information

Position Number: 101123
Working Title: Post-Doctoral Scholar for Microplastics Research in Wastewater, Stormwater, Freshwater
Job Title: Doctoral Assistant
Job Type: Full-Time
Department: Water Center

The Center for the Management, Utilization and Protection of Water Resources (the Water Center) at Tennessee Tech University is seeking an energetic and motivated post-doctoral scholar with expertise in the field of microplastics work. This person will lead microplastics research investigating the occurrence, distribution and fate of microplastics in engineered and natural fresh water systems.

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.

Compensation and Benefits

Salary: Commensurate with education and experience. The position is for 18 months with potential extension for one more year based on satisfactory performance and funding availability.

Benefits Information: Tennessee Tech offers a competitive benefits package. Benefits include the accumulation of two vacation days per month and one sick leave day per month, and thirteen (13) University holidays. Other benefits include medical and life insurance (shared cost with the university), retirement, optional 401k, and educational benefits.

Posting Details

Posting Date: 10/15/2024
Screening Date: 11/15/2024
Open Until Filled: Yes

Applicant Documents

Required Documents:

• Cover Letter
• Curriculum Vitae
• Transcripts
• List of References
• Statement of Interest

Optional Documents:

• Transcripts 2
• Other Documents

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

• * Do you have a PhD in Environmental Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Biology or a related field?
  • Yes
  • No
• * Do you have prior experience in microplastics research?
  • Yes
  • No
• * How did you hear about this job opportunity?

  (Open Ended Question)

1 William L Jones Drive, Cookeville, TN 38505

#J-18808-Ljbffr