Biological Wastewater Treatment

Biological Wastewater Treatment

Applications are invited for a Post-Doctoral position in the Civil and Environmental Engineering Department at the University of Alberta. The position is available immediately. The primary research goal in our laboratory is to understand how to shorten the time for water-solids separation, reduce the volume of tailings produced, and improve water quality for reuse in the oil sands industry. The long-term goal is to avoid production of mature fine tailings. The study will rely on the extensive knowledge developed in biological wastewater and hazardous waste treatment, environmental biofilm research, and soil-groundwater bioremediation research. Post-Doctoral duties will include, but not be limited to: The development and execution of a research program to develop engineered biological processes with enhancement measures that will lead to enriched microbial activities with both anaerobic and aerobic processes, accelerated tailings consolidation, and improved reuse water quality. This will include determining a) rates and mechanisms of microbial transformation reactions; b) microbial communities involved in biodegradation using molecular techniques such as PCR; and c) reactor design. This research will include a mix of responsibilities including: • Carrying out high-level, complex research activities under the direction of the trustholder; • Designing experiments, research methods, data collection protocols and standards in consultation with the trustholder; • Setting research activities in consultation with the trustholder; • Assisting or coordinating the analysis of results; • Assisting in the writing of research papers, preparation of presentations and publications under the direction of the trustholder; • Presenting research results in laboratory meetings, seminars, scientific conferences and or related settings; • Assisting with preparation of research grant applications and contract proposals; and • Assisting with the set-up of the lab and related administrative duties of the lab. Qualified candidates must have a Ph.D. in a related discipline such as Chemical, Civil, Environmental Engineering. The candidate must have familiarity with setting up and monitoring degradation experiments under anaerobic/aerobic conditions. Prior experience working with molecular techniques such as PCR/cloning; DGGE, FISH, DNA Microarrays and in operating the analytical instruments mentioned above is necessary. Excellent written communication skills and publication records commensurate with experience, as well as prior experience in preparing or writing grants is an asset. This is a one-year position with the possibility of extension. The salary is $40,000. A letter of application together with a curriculum vitae and the contact information of three references should be submitted to: Dr. Ania C. Ulrich Assistant Professor
 Civil and Environmental Engineering
 3-019 Markin/CNRL Natural Resources 
Engineering Facility
 University of Alberta Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2W2
 Fax: (780) 492-8198
 E-mail: aulrich@ualberta.ca All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadian and permanent residents will be given priority.