How to Apply
Please apply via this Submission Form by copying address into your browser: https://forms.gle/w6xrkTy6Dz6E6xk38 In addition, please add your application materials by clicking the "Apply Now" button on the UM Careers site.
The application must include, in a single pdf (1GB max size), (1) a cover letter outlining your research experience, qualifications, and interest in the position, and (2) a Curriculum vitae (CV) including a list of publications.
Please also submit contact information for three references.
Review of applications will begin on the 8th day of posting and will continue until the position is filled. The anticipated start date for this position is August 1, 2026; an earlier or later start date is possible. Salary and benefits are competitive and commensurate with experience.
Questions may be directed to Dr. Szczuka at [email protected]. Applications will be reviewed as they are received and only applications that follow the submission guidelines will be considered.
Please include a cover letter addressed to Dr. Alex Szczuka as the first page of your curriculum vitae. All application materials should be submitted as a single pdf file.
Who We Are
At Michigan Engineering, we develop the talent and technologies that move society forward and serve our state and national interests. Through discovery and innovation, we create the foundational knowledge and practical technologies to solve not only today's most pressing challenges, but also power industries and change lives. Our programs and community are designed to promote personal well-being and achievement - enabling everyone to unlock their potential and contribute with confidence.
Job Summary
The department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Michigan (U-M; Ann Arbor campus) is seeking a postdoctoral scholar in the area of water disinfection. The duties and expectations of the position include laboratory research within the Szczuka lab, with the possibility of field scale research, student mentorship, and managing associated research efforts. The applicant will be responsible for experimental design, analyzing samples, developing new techniques, reporting, and report writing. In addition to these technical responsibilities, the applicant will be expected to mentor undergraduate and graduate students. Further, the applicant will be expected to attend workshops and conferences to present the research, prepare manuscripts for publication in peer reviewed literature, and assist with research proposal writing and project development. Finally, the applicant will be responsible for communicating research findings with relevant stakeholders such as those in utilities, government, and industry to elucidate further opportunities.
Responsibilities*
Experimental design and research ~50%
- Design experiments focused on biological contaminant disinfection mechanisms
- Training additional researchers, including undergraduates and graduate students, on experiments
- Prepare standard operating procedures and manuals
- Perform experiments and analyses associated with experiments
- Create mitigation/alternative strategies when needed
Literature and Data Analysis ~20%
- Read and analyze peer-reviewed literature surrounding water disinfection
- Analyze and interpret data
Analyze key data trends, often by compiling data from multiple studies
Data dissemination ~20%
- Attend conferences and workshops.
- Submit manuscripts for publication.
Respond to questions and comments from collaborators
Reporting ~10%
- Prepare clear and concise reports.
- Respond to questions and comments.
- Aid principal investigator in drafting grant applications.
Required Qualifications*
- PhD Degree in civil engineering, environmental engineering, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering or related field, with a focus on water treatment.
- Ability to prepare high-quality manuscripts and effectively communicate findings in oral presentations.
Desired Qualifications*
- Experience in water disinfection or related research.
- Experience with managing research projects.
- Experience with laboratory analyses and data analysis, including molecular and/or mass spectrometry based techniques.
- Fundamental understanding of water disinfection, including water quality and biological contaminant control.
Modes of Work
Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.
Additional Information
The appointment is for 12 months with a possibility of an extension, contingent on performance and fund availability.
Background Screening
The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
Application Deadline
Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended.
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.