Description:
The Drinking Water Research Group at the University of Toronto seeks a Postdoctoral Fellow to develop analytical techniques for the characterization of nanoplastics (<1 µm) in drinking water-related matrices. The position will likely involve the use of a range of analytical tools including enhanced darkfield hyperspectral microscopy, fluorescence microscopy, laser diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, and/or pyrolysis gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. The successful candidate will be responsible for designing and conducting laboratory experiments for evaluating the potential for these and other instruments to characterize known and unknown nanoplastic particles. Other aspects of the role may include mentoring graduate students, identifying research gaps, preparation of grant proposals, and dissemination of research findings via publications and conference presentations. The candidate will report directly to Prof. Robert Andrews and Dr. Husein Almuhtaram.
This position is based on a 12-month contract with the possibility for renewal. Starting salary will range from $65,000 – $70,000 (+ benefits), depending on qualifications and previous related experience.
Requirements:
Applicants must have a doctoral degree in engineering or science along with previous laboratory experience related to nanoparticle identification as demonstrated by publications. Experience regarding the identification of micro- or nanoplastic polymer types is essential to this position.
Specific skills desired for this position include:
- Experience with characterization of small microplastics (<20 µm) and nanoplastics (<1 µm) in terms of particle size, morphology, and polymer type,
- Familiarity with size-based particle separation methods such vacuum filtration and centrifugation,
- Ability to prepare micro- and nanoplastic suspensions with desired size distribution and concentration,
- Experience mitigating microplastic contamination in laboratory spaces including airborne particles.
Applicants must have excellent written and verbal English communication skills, as well as a proven ability to prepare manuscripts for submission to prepare manuscripts for publication in high-impact factor journals.
Please submit a detailed CV which addresses the desired and required skills listed above to Dr. Husein Almuhtaram husein.almuhtaram@utoronto.ca
This competition will remain open until a suitable candidate is identified. Please note that only applicants who will receive an interview will be contacted.
