AREA OF RESEARCH
The Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry at the University of Toronto invites applications for a postdoctoral position in Dr. Elizabeth Edwards’ research group. The successful candidate will conduct research on bioaugmentation for anaerobic benzene and BTEX bioremediation, with a focus on remediation of a historically hydrocarbon-impacted field site in Ontario.
This project integrates field-scale and laboratory-based research to improve prediction of anaerobic benzene and BTEX biodegradation rates. The work involves analyzing historical and newly acquired field measurements of hydrocarbons, geochemistry data, and microbial biomarkers to develop tools that can accurately predict rates of in situ biodegradation. A bioaugmentation trial using a novel benzene-degrading methanogenic consortium, described in Toth et al., 2021 (Environ. Sci. Technol. 55: 7970–7980), will begin in Spring 2026. Because benzene is often the primary driver for cleanup, the outcomes of this research will help inform and guide remediation approaches at many subsurface sites impacted by benzene and BTEX.
Description of duties
The postdoctoral researcher will be part of a large interdisciplinary research project involving both academic and industrial partners. Key responsibilities include coordinating field and laboratory studies, supporting molecular analyses of field and laboratory samples (including DNA extraction, quantitative PCR, 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing, and metagenomics), compiling and analyzing data, and modeling biodegradation trends. The position also involves preparing manuscripts and conference presentations, and mentoring undergraduate and graduate researchers in the laboratory.
The postdoctoral researcher will also have opportunities for professional development, including mentoring undergraduate and graduate researchers, contributing to grant proposals, and presenting research findings to academic and industrial partners.
required qualifications
Applicants must have a Ph.D. in environmental engineering, chemical or biochemical engineering, environmental microbiology, molecular biology, metagenomics, or a closely related field. Required qualifications include strong analytical chemistry skills, knowledge of microbiology, strong written and oral communication skills, and the ability to work independently and collaboratively within interdisciplinary teams.
Preferred qualifications include experience in laboratory molecular biology, expertise in anaerobic microbiology, DNA extraction, qPCR, metagenomics, and proficiency in scientific computing and programming (e.g., Python, R). Familiarity with bioinformatics or contaminant plume transport modeling is considered an asset.
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS
Interested applicants should email Elizabeth Edwards (elizabeth.edwards@utoronto.ca) with a cover letter describing research interests, relevant experience, and career goals. Please include a curriculum vitae and the contact information for three references. Review of applications will begin March 10, 2026 and will continue until the position is filled.
CLOSING DATE: April 30, 2026 – or when filled.
SUPERVISOR: Professor Elizabeth Edwards
TERM: 1 year with the possibility of renewal
FTE:
The normal hours of work are 40 hours per week for a full-time postdoctoral fellow (pro-rated for those holding a partial appointment) recognizing that the needs of the employee's research and professional development and the needs of the supervisor's research program mat require flexibility in the performances of the employee's duties and hours of work.
Employment as a Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Toronto is covered by the terms of the CUPE 3902 Unit 5 Collective Agreement.
This job is posted in accordance with the CUPE 3902 Unit 5 Collective Agreement.
The University of Toronto is strongly committed to diversity within its community and especially welcomes applications from racialized persons / persons of colour, women, Indigenous / Aboriginal People of North America, persons with disabilities, LGBTQ2S+ persons, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas.