The research group led by Environmental Engineering Professor Doug Call at North Carolina State University (NC State) is seeking a graduate student in the area of environmental microbiology and DNA sequencing. The project focuses on identifying and tracking phosphorus accumulating organisms at water resource recovery facilities (WRRFs). The student will help develop a rapid DNA sequencing approach using the Oxford Nanopore sequencing platform. The project offers a unique opportunity to work directly with WRRF operators to help them learn and apply the method at full-scale WRRFs. The student will join a vibrant group of undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral researchers conducting research in environmental microbiology and electrochemistry.
The ideal candidate should have: (1) a BS or MS degree in Environmental Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology, Microbiology or related fields with a strong background in microbiology; (2) experience with DNA sequencing methods and sequence analysis; (3) prior experience publishing in peer-reviewed journals; (4) ability to work both independently and in groups; and (5) excellent communication skills.
The position is available starting fall 2025. The research will take place in the newly built Environmental Engineering Labs in Fitts-Woolard Hall on NC State’s Centennial Campus (https://www.engr.ncsu.edu/fwh/). NC State is located in Raleigh, NC, one of the fastest growing regions in the US (https://wraltechwire.com/2023/07/18/triangles-economy-is-3rd-fastest-growing-in-us-says-unc-study/). Raleigh is within a 30 minute drive to the Research Triangle Park, Duke University, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 2 hour drive to several Atlantic beaches, and 3 hour drive to the mountains.
Please send your CV and cover letter to Dr. Call (dfcall@ncsu.edu) if you are interested in the position.