Montana State University has a position available for a Postdoctoral Scholar or Research Scientist to begin May 2026, or as soon as a suitable candidate is found.
The postdoc will join a group of researchers, led by Dr. Amanda Hohner, who are broadly investigating the impacts of wildfires in the Pacific Northwest on source water quality, drinking water treatment, and overall water system resiliency to wildfire. Our research focuses largely on wildfire ash particles and dissolved organic matter characterization after fires in relation to effects on water treatment unit processes (coagulation, adsorption, and ozonation) and disinfection byproduct formation. We take various research approaches including spatial and temporal watershed sampling designs, preparation of wildfire ash leachates, and collaborations with drinking water utilities who have experienced wildfire. We work closely with researchers at Oregon State University who specialize in post-fire watershed hydrology and water quality sampling and monitoring. There are opportunities within this position to explore other specific effects of wildfire on drinking water including but not limited to distribution system contamination, contaminants from urban fire runoff, and cyanotoxins from harmful algal blooms, depending on the candidates interest and expertise.
This research is part of a larger project: Ensuring Water Security with Increasing Wildfire Threats in the Western US. The postdoc scholar or researcher will work as part of a trans-disciplinary team of scientists, including forest hydrologists, biogeochemists, ecologists, and socio-economists from Oregon State University (OSU), Washington State University (WSU), and the US Forest Service (USFS). This collaboration will provide unique perspectives and opportunities to engage in research that will help inform policies for managing and protecting source water quality, watershed health, and drinking water treatment. You can learn more about the larger project here: https://research.fs.usda.gov/pnw/projects/wildfire-water-security#overview
Preferred candidates will hold a PhD in Environmental Engineering or a related field and have strong laboratory, analytical, leadership, and communication skills. Experience working with water municipalities and performing bench-scale or pilot-scale experimental studies is desired. Successful candidates will show a strong interest in conducting collaborative research and the desire to contribute to large teams with diverse backgrounds. The appointment will be for one year (full time), with potential for renewal. Salary will range $65,000-$70,000 depending on experience and qualifications.
You can find more information about Dr. Amanda Hohner’s research here:
- https://www.montana.edu/ce/amandahohner/index.html
- https://www.montana.edu/news/24653/montana-state-professor-studies-how-wildfires-can-threaten-drinking-water-quality
Montana State University is located in Bozeman, Montana 1.5 hours from Yellowstone National Park. Bozeman is surrounded by multiple rivers and mountain ranges with incredible access to the outdoors for a range of abilities. Learn more about life in Bozeman here: https://www.montana.edu/marketing/about-msu/bozeman/
Application procedure: Interested applicants are encouraged to apply for this position by sending all application materials to Dr. Amanda (Mandi) Hohner (amanda.hohner@montana.edu). Applicants should submit: (a) a CV that includes the names of at least three professional references and their contact information, and (b) a cover letter or email describing their interests and experiences in the topic area, goals, and how they meet the required position qualifications. Dr. Hohner’s lab strives to create a diverse and inclusive environment and candidates from underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply. Application review is ongoing and will continue until filled. Applications received prior to March 30th are preferred.