Postdoctoral Research Associate-Environmental Chemistry
William & Mary

Position Number:

F0145V

Postdoctoral Research Associate-Environmental Chemistry

The mission of VIMS is to seek and broadly communicate knowledge in marine and coastal science to the Commonwealth of Virginia, the nation, and the world through research, education, and advisory service.
VIMS' strategic sections are committed to the development of resilient systems through a focus on three grand challenges, ensuring science for stewardship of:

1.Ecosystem Health: connecting physical, chemical, biological, and socioeconomic systems to address environmental and community vulnerabilities
2.Natural Resources: providing translational science for sustainable management of coastal socio-ecological systems, especially fisheries and aquaculture
3.Coastal and Ocean Processes: connecting global trends and local drivers to understand and address environmental change

The Environmental Chemistry Postdoctoral Research Associate conducts analytical chemistry-based studies to explore the composition and levels of emerging contaminants, especially microplastics and associated polymer additives in environmental samples. Sample matrices include sewage sludges, wastewaters, soil and plastics. The postdoctoral scholar will join a project focused on identifying and tracking emerging contaminants in these matrices, as well as the influence of wastewater treatment practices on their fate.

Position responsibilities include collaboration with other researchers to conduct cutting-edge research, communication of research results, and development and application of methodologies that align with the goals of the environmental chemistry group and advance the science.

Education:

• A Ph.D. or equivalent in marine sciences, chemistry, physical or environmental science or related field, at the time of appointment.

• Familiarity with current research and issues related to microplastics and chemical additives in aquatic and terrestrial environments
• Familiarity with wastewater and solids treatment processes
• Experience applying analytical chemistry methods for the detection of environmental contaminants
• Experience applying chromatographic separation and spectroscopic detection techniques
• Evidence of scientific communication skills, i.e., peer reviewed scientific publications and/or a record of scientific presentations or other modes of dissemination

Competencies/Experience:

• Knowledge of the influence of environmental conditions on microplastics and polymer additives
• Knowledge of the impact of microplastics on organisms
• Knowledge of the influence of varying polymer composition on the environmental fate of microplastics
• Research experience related to detection of microplastics and additives using analytical chemistry techniques, degradation of plastics/microplastics and the influence of environmental conditions on the migration and fate of additives
• Strong skills in developing and applying analytical chemistry methods for the detection of microplastics in environmental matrices
• Experience developing and applying chromatographic separation and spectroscopic detection techniques to the determination of chemical additives and microplastics

• This is a restricted position, subject to the continued availability of funding.

1C1100 Ecosystem Health

VIMS - Gloucester

10/01/2024

10/22/2024

Yes

Faculty

William & Mary is committed to providing a safe campus community. W&M conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include reference checks, a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.

William & Mary values diversity and invites applications from underrepresented groups who will enrich the research, teaching and service missions of the university. The university is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and encourages applications from women, minorities, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities.

William & Mary offers our employees a full array of benefits including retirement, health insurance with options for expanded dental and vision along with group and optional life insurance with coverage for spouse and children, flexible spending accounts, and an EAP (Employee Assistance Program).

Our employees enjoy additional university benefits such as educational assistance, professional development, wellness benefits, and a robust holiday schedule. All employees have access to fitness facilities on campus. Staff members also have access to the university libraries, and much more. To learn more, go to: https://www.wm.edu/offices/uhr/benefits/index.php?type=none