Post-Doctoral Associate PFAS

This is a postdoctoral position at the University of Minnesota Duluth, Minnesota Sea Grant College Program, supporting a USGS-funded project that focuses on tracing the impact of atmospherically deposited per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the Great Lakes region. The project seeks to quantify PFAS deposition from the atmosphere and understand transport pathways by combining observations of PFAS in precipitation from the National Atmospheric Deposition Program with atmospheric modeling techniques. This position primarily focuses on developing and applying back trajectory modeling to explain PFAS deposition patterns and sources in a multi-year, regional PFAS precipitation dataset. The position is funded for one year, with the possibility of extension through additional funding.

Anticipated Start Date: On or before January 1, 2026
Duration: 1-year duration

Job Duties:
The postdoctoral researcher will:

• (30%) Lead Atmospheric Modeling:
  • Apply atmospheric back trajectory models (e.g., HYSPLIT, STILT) to investigate the source regions and transport pathways of PFAS detected in regional precipitation samples.
• (30%) Integrate and Analyze Data:
  • Couple model outputs with precipitation chemistry data using receptor modeling techniques (e.g., Concentration Weighted Trajectory analysis, Positive Matrix Factorization) to perform quantitative source apportionment.
• (20%) Disseminate Research Findings:
  • Lead the preparation and submission of manuscripts for publication in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals.
• (10%) Collaborate:
  • Work within an interdisciplinary team of researchers from Minnesota Sea Grant, UMD's Natural Resources Research Institute, and the Wisconsin State Laboratory of Hygiene.
• ( 5%) Communicate Science:
  • Present research findings at regional and national scientific conferences.
• ( 5%) Mentor:
  • Contribute to mentoring undergraduate or graduate students involved in the project.
• Other duties as assigned

Contact:
Questions about this position should be directed to Alex Frie (afrie@umn.edu)

Required Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in atmospheric science, environmental science/engineering, chemistry, geography, or a related field.
• Proficiency in scientific programming languages (e.g., Python, R, or MATLAB) for data analysis and visualization.
• A record of research productivity appropriate to the career stage, including publications in peer-reviewed journals.

Desired Qualifications:

• Demonstrated experience with atmospheric transport models (e.g., HYSPLIT, STILT, FLEXPART).
• Experience with receptor-based source apportionment techniques (e.g., CWT, PMF).
• Strong quantitative and data analysis skills, including proficiency in handling large environmental datasets.
• Proficiency in geospatial analysis
• Knowledge of contaminant fate and transport, particularly for persistent organic pollutants like PFAS.

Minnesota Sea Grant (MNSG) is a program of the University of Minnesota and one of 34 federal-university Sea Grant partnerships across the country that bring applied water science to communities. MNSG's extension educators, researchers and communicators work with community members, local decision-makers, policy leaders, and personnel from resource agencies, business and industry to protect, enhance and restore habitats, ecosystems and the services those ecosystems provide. We are what makes the University of Minnesota a Sea Grant institution.

Pay Range: $61,008.00 annually; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Please visit the Benefits for Postdoctoral Candidates website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training
• Medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

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.

Applications should be submitted here and include the following:

1. A cover letter (1-2 pages) describing your research interests, your qualifications for this position, and your career goals.
2. A current Curriculum Vitae (CV).
3. Contact information for three professional references.

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

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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.

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