Dr. Natalie Cápiro’s laboratory in the Department of Biological and Environmental Engineering (BEE) at Cornell University invites applications for a postdoctoral associate position beginning summer 2024. The successful applicant will be engaged in interdisciplinary research examining the influence of subsurface environmentally relevant conditions on the rate and extent (i.e., pathways) of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) biotransformation. The project is supported by the Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program (SERDP) and performed in collaboration with researchers at Brown University and University of Michigan. The postdoctoral researcher will also have opportunities to contribute to synergistic projects in the Cápiro Research Group and interact with a vibrant community of scholars within BEE, around Cornell University, and a variety of industrial and regulatory partners. In addition, the position provides opportunities to mentor graduate and undergraduate students and be involved with proposal development and lab management.
Candidates must hold a doctoral degree in environmental engineering, biological engineering, chemical engineering, environmental chemistry, environmental microbiology, or a closely related field. Preferred experience and qualifications include: cultivation of environmentally relevant bacteria, preparation of aerobic and anaerobic microcosms, molecular biological tools to analyze environmental samples (e.g., qPCR, qRT-PCR, next-generation sequencing), and chromatography techniques to quantify contaminant and biogeochemical parameter concentrations (e.g., LC-MS/MS, LC-HRMS, HPLC, IC, and GC-FID, -µECD, -MS). Demonstrated research experience in the areas of PFAS fate and bioinformatics are desirable. The selected candidate must possess excellent written and interpersonal communication skills.
The position will be initially offered for one year with the possibility of renewal dependent upon successful progress in research and availability of research funding. The salary is competitive and commensurate with experience. Interested individuals should send a single PDF attachment containing: (1) a 1-page cover letter describing your interest in the position along with relevant research experience and qualifications; (2) a curriculum vitae emphasizing your educational background, list of publications, list of conference presentations delivered, and list of honors and awards; and (3) a list of three academic references along with contact details and a sentence describing your relationship to the referee. Send materials to Dr. Natalie Cápiro by email (natalie.capiro@cornell.edu) with the subject “PFAS biotransformation postdoc position”. Review of application materials will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Qualified candidates will be contacted to schedule a video conference interview.
The BEE Department at Cornell embraces diversity and seeks candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty and staff of all identities and backgrounds. We strongly encourage individuals from underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply.
Cornell University is an innovative Ivy League university and a great place to work. Our inclusive community of scholars, students, and staff impart an uncommon sense of larger purpose, and contribute creative ideas to further the university’s mission of teaching, discovery, and engagement. Cornell offers a rich array of services, programs and benefits to help employees advance in their career and enhance the quality of personal life. For more details, please visit the webpage of the Office of Postdoctoral Studies (https://postdocs.cornell.edu/).