The Nihi Lab, led by Dr. Cherie L De Vore at the University of Arizona, is seeking Ph.D. students to join the Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering community, beginning immediately through Fall 2024. Dr. De Vore will also consider applicants for master’s and undergraduate research positions. The lab group’s values are to integrate Indigenous Data Governance as a framework to guide environmental engineering initiatives with community partners. Her work investigates biogeochemical processes at the interface of water, energy, and health that affect the cycle and treatment of metals (U, As, Cr) and nutrients in the environment. Successful applicants will be engaged in research initiatives aimed at addressing environmental challenges cooperatively with U of A’s Indigenous Resilience Center--while honoring and respecting Indigenous knowledge systems.
Two project initiatives are:
Project 1: Microbial and Fungal Interactions as Environmental In-Situ Tools with cultural burning practices- towards building a restoration toolkit with water and soil biogeochemistry.
Project 2: PFAS, metal reactivity and biological accumulation in plants and soil from mining practices relevant for risk assessments, contaminant transport and bioremediation applications.
Candidate Requirements (PhD positions):
1. Must have a bachelor’s degree in relevant field including but not limited to environmental engineering, chemical engineering, environmental science, biology, engineering, hydrology, earth science, chemistry, microbial ecology.
2. A master’s degree in a relevant field is highly preferred.
3. Background (or strong desire to develop skills) in community engaged research methodologies and experience working with diverse communities. Experience in environmental chemistry techniques is desirable but not required.
4. Excellent scientific writing and communication skills. Multi-lingual candidates high encouraged to apply.
5. Indigenous Students highly desired and encouraged to apply!
The position offers:
-Fully funded research assistantship stipend, tuition and benefits
-Multidisciplinary mentorship and research partnerships
-Engagement with multiple knowledge systems needed for research initiatives
-Supportive community and resources from the Indigenous Resilience Center, Arizona Institute for Resilience, College of Engineering, and the Haury Program
To apply:
Candidates may contact Dr. Cherie De Vore (cdevore@arizona.edu) and include:
1. Curriculum vitae
2. A research values statement included in a cover letter
3. Three references and their contact information