Postdoctoral Researcher in Atmospheric Sources, Fate, and Transport of PFAS

Number of Positions: 1

Anticipated Start Date: 2025

Term: 1 year (with renewal opportunity)

We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher to join our vibrant and diverse research team at York University in Toronto, Canada. The researcher will work under the co-supervision of Cora Young and Trevor VandenBoer with the general goal of improving our understanding of the atmospheric sources, fate, and transport of fluorinated chemicals in the atmosphere (i.e., per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)). There is flexibility in the specific project depending on the interest and experience of the candidate. The project will focus on one or more of: laboratory experiments, instrument/method development, and/or field measurements.

We are looking for someone with a PhD in atmospheric chemistry, analytical chemistry, environmental chemistry, or a related field. Experience with one or more of the following would be considered an asset: in situ mass spectrometry (e.g., CIMS), gas chromatography, collection of ambient real-time data, and/or analysis of large datasets.

As a member of the team, the postdoctoral researcher can expect the following opportunities: to learn and develop new hands-on and data analysis skills; to build upon existing expertise, either through collaborations or leading side projects; to hone leadership skills through mentoring and project oversight; and to develop professional skills specific to their career objectives, with direct support in seeking job opportunities, training (e.g., teaching, finance management, proposal writing), and the preparation of materials. Former postdoctoral researchers from the group have gone on to jobs in government, industry, and academia.

York University is a leading international teaching and research university, and a driving force for positive change. The campus is located in the north end of Toronto, Canada’s largest city. The university is easily accessible by car or transit, including by subway from downtown Toronto.

The position is available immediately. If interested, please send a cover letter, cv, and the names and contact information for two references to Cora (youngcj@yorku.ca) and Trevor (tvandenb@yorku.ca). Applications will be reviewed as they are submitted. Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

Resources

Home to 52,000 students, York University has an international reputation as a global, research-intensive university committed to interdisciplinarity, innovation, social justice, equity, and diversity. Members of the Faculty of Science learn from and work with outstanding faculty members, and benefit from leading-edge research facilities and visiting speaker series. Postdoctoral fellows have the opportunity to collaborate with colleagues at Canadian institutions and internationally in academia, industry, and government. The Faculty of Science has grown substantially in recent years. It has earned a global reputation for cutting-edge research and innovation, housing one of the first programs in Canadian Atmospheric Chemistry. The Department of Chemistry consists of 24 faculty members, several postdoctoral fellows, and over 60 graduate students, providing a large community of local expertise. The Department of Chemistry has research excellence and diversity across many disciplines and attracts funding from a broad array of agencies including NSERC, CIHR, Mitacs, and CFI. It is also home to YSciCore offering a wide variety of state-of-the-science techniques for the physical sciences.