PFAS Laboratory Research Scientist

Virginia Tech's Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering is seeking applicants for a Research Scientist position at the Occoquan Watershed Monitoring Laboratory (OWML) in Manassas, Virginia. We seek candidates with a proven track record of scholarship in environmental organic chemistry and extensive experience with advanced analytical instrumentation, particularly liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. The successful candidate will substantially contribute to the development of the growing PFAS research program at OWML in collaboration with faculty, students, staff scientists and technicians. The successful candidate will develop new lines of research, lead scientific publications and funding proposals, and supervise students and junior staff. This is an excellent position for a candidate with a background in PFAS research and previous laboratory management experience who is motivated to grow their research profile in a highly collaborative environment. This position provides unique opportunities to engage with a dynamic, growing and highly stakeholder-engaged academic community in the Northern Virginia and Washington D.C. region. Job duties will include:
1. Leading the conception and development of research projects related to PFAS, including engaging with stakeholders and committees, identifying and securing funding sources, and defining unit goals. Responsible for allocating resources effectively and communicating results to relevant stakeholders. Contributes significantly to the design, execution, and interpretation of research activities.
2. Project Management: Oversees all phases of project management, including setting priorities, acquiring and managing resources, monitoring budgets, tracking progress, preparing reports, and addressing challenges as they arise. Contributes significantly to ensuring projects are delivered on time and within scope.
3. Supervisory Responsibilities: May hold full or partial supervisory responsibility for project personnel. Duties include training in research methods and use of advanced instrumentation, assigning tasks, monitoring performance, conducting evaluations, and recommending personnel actions.
4. Research Execution: Independently conducts research within the field of environmental organic chemistry under general supervision. Responsibilities include development of new or improved analytical methods, experimental and field study design and data collection, and communication of findings through writing reports and manuscripts for academic journals.
5. Mentorship: Provides guidance and support to junior researchers, students, or staff, fostering skill development, academic growth, and professional advancement within the research environment.

Required Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant field (e.g., environmental chemistry, analytical chemistry, environmental engineering)
• Record of publishing research in peer-reviewed journals or reports
• Documented experience operating and maintaining liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) (or closely related instrumentation)
• Experience with PFAS analysis
• Demonstrated knowledge of environmental organic chemistry and water quality
• Attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to prioritize responsibilities
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

• Research experience with PFAS or closely related topics in environmental organic chemistry
• Experience operating and maintaining GC-MS, IC, and other advanced analytical instrumentation used in environmental analyses
• Experience with laboratory management, QA/QC protocols and data management.
• Demonstrated experience in statistical modeling, data analysis, and scientific programming languages (e.g., Python, Matlab, or R)
• Experience serving in the capacity of a PI or Co-PI, and history of successful execution of objectives of sponsored research.

Restricted

$90,000-$110,000

Application review will begin on May 16, 2025 and continue until position is filled.

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

Applicants must apply online at jobs.vt.edu (posting number 533086). Application materials include a cover letter, CV, up to three research publications, a research statement (limit to two pages), and contact information for three professional references. Any questions about the position may be directed to the search chair, Dr. Kirin Furst: kfurst@vt.edu

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including the Innovation Campus in Northern Virginia; the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke; sites in Newport News and Richmond; and numerous Extension offices and research centers. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $500 million in research annually.

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