Postdoctoral Research Associate – PFAS Fate, Removal, and Remediation
Location: Morgan State University, Baltimore, Maryland
Position Type: Full-time, 12 months (renewal subject to funding and performance)
Position Summary
The Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Morgan State University invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to contribute to a multidisciplinary research project focused on the fate, transport, and remediation of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) within watershed systems. The research includes investigating PFAS removal through advanced pyrolysis processes, evaluating biochar adsorption performance, and conducting life cycle analyses of biosolid reuse.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform targeted and non-targeted PFAS analysis using LC-MS/MS instrumentation.
- Design and conduct laboratory-scale pyrolysis experiments to optimize PFAS degradation in sewage biosolids.
- Evaluate biochar materials for PFAS adsorption efficiency and stability.
- Analyze samples from field sites (e.g., water, soil, sediments, biota) to characterize PFAS distribution in the Patuxent River watershed.
- Contribute to data interpretation, manuscript preparation, and conference presentations.
- Collaborate with faculty, graduate students, and external partners on research planning and implementation.
- Prepare reports for funding agencies and contribute to proposal development for future research.
Required Qualifications
- Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering, Environmental Chemistry, Environmental Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field (awarded by the start date).
- Experience in PFAS detection and quantification, especially using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS or LC-MS/MS).
- Strong laboratory skills, attention to detail, and commitment to research safety.
- Demonstrated record of scholarly publications and effective scientific communication.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team environment.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in environmental sampling, fate and transport modeling, or life cycle assessment (LCA).
- Interest in watershed-scale environmental research and sustainability applications.
About Morgan State University
Morgan State University, located in Baltimore, Maryland, is a Carnegie-classified R2 doctoral research institution and Maryland’s Preeminent Public Urban Research University. We are committed to addressing complex environmental challenges and advancing equity-focused solutions.
How to Apply
Please submit the following materials in a single PDF file to donghee.kang@morgan.edu:
- Cover letter describing your research interests and fit for the position
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Contact information for three professional references.