Description
Position Title: Postdoctoral Researcher – Environmental Analytical Chemistry/Stormwater Contaminants Analysis and Treatment
Location: University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
The Scholes Lab at the University of British Columbia is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to contribute to research on trace organic contaminants in urban stormwater. The position will focus on developing source-specific contaminant profiles across diverse urban landscapes as part of a multi-year initiative in partnership with First Nations, streamkeeper groups, academic institutions, and municipal, regional, and provincial governments,
The postdoctoral researcher will work as part of a team including graduate and undergraduate researchers focused on understanding and mitigating road runoff contaminants in urban stormwater, and will be expected to use advanced mass spectrometry-based analytical techniques, prepare manuscripts and research reports, coordinate with external partners and collaborators, and present findings at national and international professional conferences. Our team strives to create an inclusive, collaborative, and supportive working environment in which researchers from diverse backgrounds can thrive. The successful applicant will be expected to contribute to this environment, including by mentoring junior team members.
Required Qualifications:
- Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering, Environmental Chemistry, or a related field
- Prior experience and significant expertise in analysis of organic contaminants using liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry
- Demonstrated ability to publish research in high quality journals
- Demonstrated effective oral and written communication skills
Desirable Qualifications:
- Prior experience with organic contaminant analytical method development and/or use of high-resolution mass spectrometry for suspect or nontarget screening
- Prior significant experience in sample preparation (e.g., solid phase extraction) of environmental samples
- Prior experience working with non-academic partners, including Indigenous and/or community-based groups
- Prior experience with analysis of road runoff contaminants
- Prior experience mentoring students in a laboratory setting
Interested individuals should submit a single pdf file that includes a cover letter outlining the applicant's research and career goals, their curriculum vitae, a copy of one representative research publication, and contact information for three references to Dr. Scholes (rachel.scholes@ubc.ca).
All applications submitted by September 14, 2026, will be considered. Applications submitted after this date may be considered until the position is filled. Funding for the position is available for up to two years, contingent on performance during the first year. The position may be extended after the initial two years, subject to the availability of funds. The base salary for this position is $70,000 CAD per year, plus benefits.
