Postdoctoral Associate

The final salary offer may be determined by several factors, including, but not limited to, the candidate's qualifications, experience, and expertise, and availability of department or grant funds to support the position. We also take into consideration market benchmarks, if and when appropriate, and internal equity to ensure fair compensation relative to the university's broader compensation structure. We are committed to offering competitive and flexible compensation packages to attract and retain top talent.

Rutgers provides a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees. The specific benefits vary based on the position and may include:

A postdoc position is available with an anticipated start date of May 2026 in Dr. Nicole Fahrenfeld's group in Civil & Environmental Engineering at Rutgers University-New Brunswick ( https://sites.google.com/site/nicolefahrenfeld/home). The postdoc will lead research on the quantification, fate, and transport of microplastics impacted by PFAS in the environment. The position is funded as a part of the DoD's Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program ( SERDP) ( https://serdp-estcp.mil/page/415323e5-04d5-4783-ad11-5201a59f456d). The project is a collaboration between Rutgers, Temple, and CDM Smith. The initial appointment will be for 12 months, renewable for another one-year contingent on satisfactory performance and the availability of funding.

About the Fahrenfeld Group The Fahrenfeld Group works at the interface of environmental chemistry and environmental microbiology to promote water quality and sustainability. The team works closely with Dr. Georgia Arbuckle-Keil's group in Chemistry at Rutgers University in Camden, NJ on several microplastics projects. Their microplastic research has been funded by National Science Foundation, NJ Sea Grant, NJ Department of Environmental Protection, and Water Research Foundation, among others.

Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering, Environmental Chemistry, or related fields. Highly motivated, capable of working independently and in a collaborative environment.

Significant experience with methods for extraction and analysis of environmental plastics is required including FTIR ( ATR- and FTIR-microscopy), Raman spectroscopy, and/or Pyrolysis GC-MS.

Experience conducting controlled laboratory weathering studies is desirable. Excellent written and oral communication skills are required. Evidence of contributions funding agency reports is desirable.

While the primary work location is in Piscataway NJ, travel to labs in Camden NJ will be required for selected analyses, therefore candidates with a valid driver's license and access to a reliable personal vehicle are preferred.

Prospective candidates should submit the following materials: brief cover letter, curriculum vitae (including a list of relevant coursework for environmental, organic, analytical, and polymer chemistry), names and contact information for three references, and up to two examples of scholarly output (e.g., published or submitted manuscripts). Application review will begin immediately and continue until the ideal candidate is identified.