Position Overview:
Dr. Neha Sharma is seeking a highly motivated Ph.D. student to join her research group in the department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Auburn University. The successful candidate will conduct research in the areas of resource recovery, water treatment, and trace metal geochemistry in natural systems. This research will involve a combination of laboratory and field studies, utilizing cutting-edge analytical methods to explore molecular-scale mechanisms in environmental settings. The student will also have the opportunity to work with advanced synchrotron techniques for material characterization and gain interdisciplinary experience in environmental engineering and geochemistry. To learn more about Dr. Sharma’s prior research, visit her research page and Google Scholar profile.
Key Responsibilities:
- Conduct independent and collaborative research in water treatment, resource recovery, and metal geochemistry.
- Perform laboratory and field experiments to study biogeochemical processes in environmental systems.
- Utilize advanced synchrotron-based techniques (e.g., X-ray absorption spectroscopy, X-ray fluorescence imaging) for material characterization.
- Collect, analyze, and interpret experimental data, developing quantitative models where applicable.
- Prepare scientific publications and presentations for conferences and peer-reviewed journals.
- Assist in mentoring undergraduate students and contribute to a collaborative, multidisciplinary research team.
Required Qualifications:
- B.S. or M.S. in Civil, Environmental, or Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
- Willingness to engage in both laboratory and field research.
- Strong research aptitude, problem-solving abilities, and excellent communication skills.
- Prior experience with advanced analytical instrumentation.
- Proficiency in oral and written English communication.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience working in a laboratory on water quality research.
- Demonstrated ability to write and publish original research.
- Prior experience in interdisciplinary collaboration and teamwork.
- Background in aqueous chemistry or solid-phase characterization
- Demonstrated proficiency in working on interdisciplinary teams
Application Instructions:
Interested applicants should submit the following materials to Dr. Neha Sharma (nehash@stanford.edu):
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Academic transcripts
- A representative publication or example of scientific writing
Review of applications will begin immediately, and successful candidates will be invited to apply for admission. The deadline for applications is Friday, April 25, 2025.
For more information about the department, please visit: Auburn University Civil and Environmental Engineering Department.
Auburn University is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity, equity, and inclusion in its academic community. We encourage applications from candidates of diverse backgrounds and experiences who are committed to advancing environmental research.