We are seeking individuals to fill a postdoctoral research position for a three-year study concerning opportunistic pathogens and disinfection byproducts (DBPs) in U.S. water systems funded by the US EPA. The project involves sampling of finished and tap water at water utilities around the U.S. and analyzing for opportunistic pathogens via both culture-based and culture-independent (i.e., DNA-based) methods as well as analyzing for known and unknown DBPs using target and non-target analyses. Most of the DBP work will be done by project team members at other institutions. The collected data will be analyzed to assess tradeoffs between opportunistic pathogens on the one hand and elevated disinfectants/DBPs on the other in order to develop recommendations for limiting exposure to these two classes of contaminants via public water supplies.

Position responsibities: 

50% Performing DNA extractions; real-time PCR, dPCR, and culture-based analyses to quantify opportunistic pathogens
20% Coordinating sampling activities with water utilities and project team members
20% Analyzing data; writing reports and manuscripts; presenting results
10% Supervising and working with project personnel

Required qualifications:

• PhD in environmental engineering, chemical engineering, civil engineering, microbiology, microbial ecology, or a related field
• Experience with (i) DNA-based analyses including real-time PCR, digital PCR (dPCR), and DNA sequencing; and (ii) analysis of DNA sequencing results using mothur/QIIME, R, etc.
• An ability to work independently and work effectively with a team

Preferred qualifications include:

• Experience with bacterial culturing and culture-based analysis methods
• Experience with statistical data analysis tools and software (e.g., R)
• Knowledge of water treatment

About University of Minnesota Twin Cities

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