Research Associate-Fixed Term

Position Summary

The Institute of Water Research is seeking a qualified research associate to model and investigate the fate and transport of poly/per-fluoroalkylated substances (PFAS) at the field and regional scales. The selected candidate will be working on evaluating the short- and long-term effectiveness of novel remediation technologies for removing PFAS from contaminated sites. The candidate will take a lead role in directing existing research projects and developing PFAS grant proposals. For this purpose, the candidate should have a hydrogeology research background and be able to develop and work with hydrogeochemical models. The modeling phase requires the candidate to develop 2D/3D numerical models to simulate complex mechanisms in PFAS fate and transport in groundwater layers, the vadose zone, and the unsaturated zone. 

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Degree

Doctorate -Civil/Biological Engineering

Minimum Requirements

• Doctorate - Ph.D. Degree in Civil/Biological Engineering
• Greater than one year of relevant and progressively responsible experience in hydrological modeling (e.g., SWAT and MODFLOW) procedures and performing analytical and research techniques in an area related to the research being performed
• Excellent communication skills and fluent in English
  
  Moreover, the candidate should be able to modify existing physically based models to simulate the impact of precursors on the PFAS terminal compounds and the PFAS non-linear sorption at the solid phase, aqueous phase, and water-air interface, which are not available in conventional modeling tools. Candidates with strong and demonstrable programming language skills (e.g., Fortran, Python, SQL) are highly desirable. 

Desired Qualifications

• Experience in HYDRUS, SWAT, MODFLOW Integration, PFAS fate, and transport modeling.

Required Application Materials

Please submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and names and contact information for at least three references.

Special Instructions

For questions, please contact iwr@msu.edu. Applicants must submit their application through the MSU Careers portal.

Review of Applications Begins On

05/26/2025

Website

https://www.canr.msu.edu/iwr/

MSU Statement

Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.