Illinois Sustainable Technology Center (ISTC)
Prairie Research Institute (PRI)
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
The Illinois Sustainable Technology Center is seeking to hire a Postdoctoral Research Associate to conduct laboratory and field experiments for plant uptake and mitigation of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) derived from biosolids applicaiton. In particular, there is interest in developing new treatment techniques to remediate these forever chemicals in various environmental media including water, soils, biosolids and food plants.
Duties & Responsibilities:
- Conduct field and laboratory experiments as well as modeling study for proof of scientific concepts related to research topics.
- Generate designer biochar for contaminant removal.
- Review and interpret research results to assure validity and quality control.
- Provide technical content for project reports.
- Write and publish scientific articles.
- Attend, participate in, and contribute to professional meetings, conferences, and workshops.
- Perform other duties as needed in order to further the mission and goals of the ISTC, PRI, and the University of Illinois.
- Keep abreast of developments in this discipline.
Position Requirements and Qualifications:
Required: At the time of the appointment, applicants should hold a PhD with interest and expertise in agriculture and biological engineering, chemistry or chemical engineering, environmental science or engineering, soil, crop science, or related discipline. Alternate degrees or degree fields will be considered depending on the nature and depth of the candidate’s experience as it relates to this position. A valid driver’s license is required.
Preferred: Laboratory experience with thermal conversion techniques (e.g., pyrolysis and hydrothermal carbonization), analytical instrumentation operation, or mitigation of emerging contaminants is preferred. Modeling experience with life-cycle assessment and techno-economic analysis is preferred. Ability to lift and carry stuff up to 50 pounds is also preferred.
Knowledge Requirements: Effective communication, personal relations, collaboration, organizational, teamwork, and leadership skills. Demonstrated ability to perform effectively in a diverse and fast-paced work environment consisting of multiple and changing priorities with stringent deadlines, under minimal supervision. Attention to detail, sound judgment, and strong conflict resolution skills. Proficiency in commonly employed software and databases.
Appointment: renewed annually with satisfactory progress and funding.
Salary: Commensurate with skills and experiences; plus benefits; which includes 26 annual Vacation Days, 13 Sick Days, and 12 Holidays; Medical Insurances and many more benefits that can be found at the following link https://www.hr.uillinois.edu/UserFiles/Servers/Server_4208/File/Benefits/EmployeeBenefits.pdf
For full consideration: Please submit a CV, a Cover Letter, and the contact list of 3 Professional References (including names, addresses, phone numbers and e-mail addresses) to Dr. Wei Zheng, llinois Sustainable Technology Center, mail to weizheng@illinois.edu. This advertisement will stay active until the position is filled.