Posting Detail InformationWorking TitlePostdoctoral Fellow Environmental Chemistry (Borch)Position LocationFort Collins, COWork LocationPosition is fully in-office/in-personResearch Professional PositionYesPosting Number202500132APPosition TypeAdmin Professional/ Research ProfessionalClassification TitlePostdoctoral FellowsNumber of VacanciesWork Hours/Week40Proposed Annual Salary Range$60,000-$80,000 Salary depends on years of experience post-degree.Employee BenefitsColorado State University is not just a workplace; it’s a thriving community that’s transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service. With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact.
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Desired Start DatePosition End Date (if temporary)To ensure full consideration, applications must be received by 11:59pm (MT) on02/24/2025Description of Work UnitThe Department of Soil and Crop Sciences is focused on education, research, and outreach to solve the world’s most pressing food production issues and crucial matters about Earth, its ecosystems, and their services. Our faculty and staff apply research-based solutions to benefit Colorado and the world. We offer academic programs to prepare students to address national and global crop production, sustainability, and environmental quality challenges such as waste management, water quality, and reclamation of drastically disturbed lands. There are numerous opportunities for students to be involved in cutting edge research related to global food production and ecosystem function and protection.Position SummaryThe post doctoral fellow will develop novel analytical methods for rapid contaminant and toxicity assessment of industrial wastewater. The postdoc will contribute to the design of a cutting-edge non-targeted analysis ( NTA ) and suspect screening analysis ( SSA ) methods using high-resolution mass spectrometry ( HRMS ) and computational tools to detect and identify unknown or suspected chemicals in raw and treated oil and gas (O&G) produced water (PW).The research will focus on developing a novel approach for non-targeted analysis of compounds in produced water using Solid Phase Microextraction ( SPME ) in combination with Liquid Chromatography (LC) and High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry ( HRMS ). SPME offers a rapid, solvent-free method for sample preparation, while LC- HRMS enables precise identification and structural elucidation of both known and unknown contaminants at trace levels. This integrated method will be applied to assess the risk of compounds in treated produced water, with a particular focus on evaluating the environmental toxicity of these compounds.The postdoc will use laboratory measurements (including Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FT- ICR MS), LC-Q- TOF MS, LC-QqQ-MS/MS, GC-MS, and SPME ) characterize variability of organic constituents in treated and raw PW across the Permian. This will include characterization of chemical classes, and some specific constituents of interest. The postdoc will investigate the potential for using SPME and LC retention times as an effective method for assessing the toxicity risks of compounds present in PW.This position is initially funded as part of a 2 year grant program.Required Job Qualifications
Ph.D. in analytical chemistry, environmental chemistry, environmental engineering, environmental science or a related field by start of employment.
Experience in mass spectrometry analysis, data processing, and/or interpretation.
Experience in liquid- and gas chromatography.
Relevant laboratory experience.
The successful candidate must be legally authorized to work in the United States by the proposed start date; the department will not provide visa sponsorship for this position.
Preferred Job Qualifications
Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry
Proficiency in R, python, Matlab, or equivalent software for efficient data handling and organization.
Expertise in Solid Phase Microextraction ( SPME ).
Familiarity with manipulative experiments.
Capabilities for teamwork and independent work.
Environmental toxicology.
Proficiency in handling moderate-to-large datasets and applying statistical analyses.
Essential DutiesJob Duty CategoryResearchDuty/Responsibility
Develop non-targeted analysis methods for characterization of compounds in produced water using SPME in combination with LC and HRMS .
Develop and pursue innovative techniques related to detection of water contaminants by mass spectrometry.
Sample raw and treated produced water as well as “uncontaminated” environmental samples such as upstream river water and wetlands.
Determine quantitative and qualitative variability in contaminant classes in produced water and natural environments.
Develop database with produced water compounds and biomarkers
Set up, operate, and maintain laboratory instruments.
Mentor students in the lab setting
Percentage Of Time70Job Duty CategoryAuthorship and Grant Proposal SubmissionDuty/Responsibility
Communicate research outcomes in scientific publications and presentations.
Contribute to the development of grant proposals and progress reports.
Percentage Of Time30Application DetailsSpecial Instructions to ApplicantsTo apply, please upload a cover letter that addresses the required and preferred job qualifications, a CV, an unofficial transcript, and the contact information for three professional references. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled, but for full consideration please apply by February 24, 2025.CSU is committed to full inclusion of qualified individuals. If you are needing assistance or accommodations with the search process, please reach out to the listed search contact.References will not be contacted without prior notification to candidates. Please note, applicants may redact information from their application materials that identifies their age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.Conditions of EmploymentPre-employment Criminal Background Check (required for new hires)Search ContactThomas Borch, [email protected] State University ( CSU ) provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.Background Check Policy StatementColorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks for the finalist before a final offer. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.References RequestedReferences RequestedMinimum Requested3Maximum Requested3Supplemental QuestionsRequired fields are indicated with an asterisk (). Applicant DocumentsRequired Documents
Cover Letter
Curriculum Vitae
Unofficial Transcripts
Optional Documents