Postdoctoral Scholar - Environmental Contaminants Analytical Laboratory

The Pennsylvania State University • University Park, FL

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About The Position

The Institute of Energy and the Environment (IEE) https://iee.psu.edu/home at The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA is seeking applications for a full time Postdoctoral Scholar to work in the IEE Environmental Contaminants Analytical Laboratory, https://iee.psu.edu/labs/environmental-contaminants-analytical-laboratory . We are looking for a highly motivated researcher with strong analytical laboratory expertise to support projects on contaminants of emerging concern (CECs) across environmental, ecological, and agroecosystems, as well as other systems such as aquatic, terrestrial, and engineered environments. The successful candidate will support interdisciplinary researchers and will work with a team of subject matter experts to advance analytical capabilities for detecting and characterizing CECs in diverse matrices. This position offers: Opportunities for cross-disciplinary collaboration on high-impact research spanning agroecosystems, ecological systems, and engineered systems. Access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and advanced instrumentation. Professional development through grant writing, mentoring, and networking within Penn State’s Institute of Energy and the Environment. Engagement in team science aimed at addressing complex environmental challenges and advancing sustainability.

Requirements

• Ph.D. (or equivalent) in Analytical Chemistry, Environmental Chemistry, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated experience in analytical method development and validation for trace-level contaminants.
• Proficiency in instrumental analysis (e.g., LC-MS/MS, GC-MS) and associated data processing software.
• Familiarity with environmental sample matrices and contaminants of emerging concern.
• Strong quantitative and problem-solving skills; ability to manage large datasets.
• Applicants should demonstrate a record of research productivity through publications in peer-reviewed journals.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with non-targeted analysis, high-resolution mass spectrometry, or advanced imaging techniques.
• Knowledge of QA/QC protocols and interlaboratory validation.
• Programming or scripting skills for data analysis (e.g., R, Python).
• Knowledge of data processing software including Chromeleon, TraceFinder, Compound Discoverer, and Clarity is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize analytical methods for quantifying emerging contaminants (e.g., PFAS, microplastics, pharmaceuticals, pesticides) in water, soil, plant tissue, and other environmental and biological media.
• Operate and maintain advanced instrumentation such as LC-MS/MS, GC-MS, CIC, Pyrolysis-GC/MS, and LDIR.
• Perform sample preparation, extraction, and cleanup for complex matrices and analysis from multiple systems (e.g., agroecosystems, aquatic ecosystems, ecological habitats).
• Conduct data processing and interpretation, including QA/QC procedures, statistical analysis, and reporting.
• Collaborate on research addressing fate, transport, and health impacts of emerging contaminants in interconnected systems.
• Lead and contribute to publications, presentations, and proposals related to analytical method development and environmental contaminant monitoring.

Benefits

• Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being.
• For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page. (Note: For Postdoctoral benefits, please see our Postdoctoral Benefits page.)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees