Position Description
Drs. Kristen Jellison and Gabrielle String of the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering (CEE) at Lehigh University are seeking one (1) environmental engineering Ph.D. student to start in Fall 2026 on a joint research program. The successful candidate will conduct research on the efficacy of disinfection for an emerging opportunistic waterborne pathogen of concern. Combining laboratory-based bench work with field-collected data, the candidate will utilize knowledge and skills from microbiology and treatment process, as well as science communication, to inform ongoing collaborations with industry partners. The selected candidate will receive a competitive research assistant stipend, a tuition waiver, and other student benefits as standard to students in the P.C. Rossin College of Engineering and Applied Science.
Application Requirements
Successful candidates should have a B.S. in environmental engineering, microbiology, bioengineering, or chemical engineering with an environmental engineering or bioengineering focus, or a related field. Previous research experience in environmental engineering, biological processes, and environmental microbiology is preferred. An M.S. degree and previous research experience in these fields are preferred but not required. Applicants need to meet the graduate admission requirements, including GPA and language test scores (if applicable). For additional details on applying to Lehigh for a PhD please see: https://engineering.lehigh.edu/cee/graduate/environmental-engineering-ms-phd
About Lehigh University
Recognized among the nation’s premier research universities, Lehigh offers a rigorous academic community for more than 7,000 students. At Lehigh, real problem-solving, mentorship and collaboration lead to true and lasting impact, here on our campus, in the Lehigh Valley, and well beyond. Our faculty, staff, and students are committed to creating an inclusive community dedicated to positively impacting the future.
To Apply
Please compile a single PDF document containing the following: 1) your detailed CV; and, 2) a 1-page research statement that explains your research experience and interest. Email your PDF to gabrielle.string@lehigh.edu using the subject line “EnvEng PhD Applicant”. Review of applications will continue until the position is filled.
