Post Doctoral Researcher

Overview

The Environmental Nanoscience and Analytics Laboratory in the Department of Environmental Health Sciences at the University of South Carolina is seeking a full-time postdoctoral researcher. The lab focuses on the environmental fate of metals and nanomaterials in various environmental systems, including air, water, soil, and fire ash. The individual will assist with two projects related to metal transformations and mobilization following wildland-urban interface fires.

The position is primarily lab-based but will involve occasional field work to conduct soil and ash sampling with other members of the lab. Major responsibilities include developing experimental design, performing lab analyses, maintenance and operation of equipment, mentoring of students, data management and analysis, and manuscript preparation. The position also involves collaboration with faculty across the University of South Carolina and elsewhere as well as with beamline scientists at various synchrotron facilities.

• Planning and coordinating field sampling activities (essential function: Yes).
• Assisting in the development and testing of standard operating procedures, including quality control and quality assurance procedures; training students with the safe and appropriate use of lab procedures and equipment.
• Analysis of metals and nanomaterial concentration and speciation in environmental samples using laboratory methods.
• Mentor students and employees in data analysis, interpretation, and dissemination.

Job Related Minimum Required

Education And Experience:

• Requires a Doctoral (Ph.D.) degree in area of research specialty.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience in environmental science/wildfire research and expertise in the chemical, and/or physical analysis of water, soil, sediment, or fire ash.

• Holding a PhD degree in a relevant field.
• Prior research experience related to environmental science.
• Strong analytical and quantitative background.
• Strong analytical chemistry background, in particular experience with operation of analytical equipment and characterization of nanomaterials and metals in environmental samples using advanced analytical tools such as single particle-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry.
• Attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
• A willingness to learn new things, challenge yourself, and operate in a team environment is critical.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team, with strong communication (oral and written), and fast learning skills.

• Hours Per Week: 37.5
• Work Schedule: Monday – Friday 8:30 am – 5:00 pm, with one hour of lunch; flexible schedule to meet department needs.
• Type Of Staff Position: Staff Research Grant (SRGP)
• Basis: 12 months
• Open Dates: 12/19/2025
• Close Date: 01/31/2026
• Open Until Filled: No

• Advertised Salary Range: Salary commensurate with qualification
• Campus: Columbia
• Work County: Richland
• College/Division: Arnold School of Public Health
• Department: ASPH Environmental Health Sciences
• Special Instructions To Applicant: Positions are advertised for a minimum of five business days on our job website. After five business days, positions may be closed at the discretion of the department. We are only accepting applications submitted by January 31, 2026.
• EEO Statement: The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities or decisions for qualified persons on the basis of age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender, gender identity or expression, genetic information, HIV/AIDS status, military status, national origin, pregnancy, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other bases under federal, state, local law, or regulations.