Postdoctoral: Atmospheric Chemistry Research Group (ACRG)

Position Summary

Industry: Education & Training

Job category: Others: Education and Training

Location: Potchefstroom

Contract: Permanent

Remuneration: Market Related

EE position: No

Introduction

NORTH-WEST UNIVERSITY (POTCHEFSTROOM CAMPUS), FACULTY OF NATURAL AND AGRICULTURAL SCIENCES, FOCUS AREA FOR CHEMICAL RESOURCE BENEFICIATION, ATMOSPHERIC CHEMISTRY RESEARCH GROUP BIOGEOCHEMISTRY RESEARCH INFRASTRUCTURE PLATFORM (BIOGRIP) OF THE DEPARTMENT OF SCIENCE AND INNOVATION VACANCY: POSTDOCTORAL POSITION IN ONLINE TD-GC-MS MEASUREMENTS OF VOLATILE ORGANIC COMPOUNDS IN SOUTH AFRICA

Job Description

A postdoctoral position is available in the Atmospheric Chemistry Research Group (ACRG) in the focus area for Chemical Resource Beneficiation at North-West University. Our research group aims to understand the interactions between atmospheric trace gases and particles in the atmosphere and biosphere to inform air quality and climate change processes. Our research aligns with the United Nations' sustainable development goals (SDGs), specifically Goal 3 (good health and well-being), Goal 7 (affordable and clean energy), goal 11 (sustainable cities and communities), and Goal 13 (climate action). As a postdoc, you will have a unique opportunity to work with a dynamic team of researchers and engage in cutting-edge research in volatile organic compounds (VOCs) measurements in ambient air in South Africa. Your work will be critical in deepening our understanding of the impact of VOCs on air quality, climate change, human health, and the achievement of SDGs.

Air pollution is a significant global challenge that adversely impacts human health and the environment. VOCs are among the most important air pollutants, significantly contributing to air quality degradation and climate change. South Africa has significant air pollution challenges, and there is a need for innovative and sustainable environmental solutions to address this issue.

As a successful candidate, you will oversee the operation of only one of two state-of-the-art in situ thermal desorption units with a gas chromatograph and a mass spectrometer (TD-GC-MS) on the African continent with supporting information from a comprehensively equipped atmospheric monitoring station. Additionally, you will develop, validate, and implement novel sampling/analysis methods using sorbent tubes and TD-GC-MS analysis. The position also involves project design and logistics for optimal sampling/analysis conditions of atmospheric VOCs, validation studies, and preparing protocols and operating procedures. The candidate must process large datasets with programmable software such as MATLAB, R, and Python and publish scientific research papers yearly in ISI-accredited peer-reviewed journals.

The candidate will benefit significantly from this position. They will be able to conduct high-impact research and develop skills in online TD-GC-MS VOC measurements, analytical method development and validation, data analysis, and scientific writing. They will also have the opportunity to collaborate with experts in atmospheric science and network with leading atmospheric chemists in Africa and beyond. Finally, their research will contribute to sustainable environmental solutions, improving air quality and advancing the achievement of the SDGs while conducting cutting-edge research in atmospheric chemistry.

Minimum Requirements

The ideal candidate will have a PhD in Chemistry, Environmental Science, or a related field. They should have proficiency in chromatography, mass spectrometry, and data analysis, experience in analytical method development and validation targeting organic contaminants using GC-MS, knowledge of statistical approaches and experience with manipulating large datasets. Experience or solid comprehension of sorbent tube sampling/thermal desorption concepts for VOCs is an asset but not a requirement. The selected applicant will actively communicate the research results (seminars, workshops, scientific papers) and should be fluent in English (oral and written).

Other competency requirements include knowledge of atmospheric chemistry research, scientific writing skills, knowledge of atmospheric sampling and analysis, excellent problem-solving, planning, and coordinating skills, ability to learn and apply new skills, ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines, ability to work independently and function in a group, good interpersonal skills, and motivation and ethical conduct.

If you are a highly motivated individual with a passion for atmospheric chemistry research and want to contribute to a sustainable future, this postdoctoral position is an excellent opportunity for you. We encourage candidates from diverse backgrounds and underrepresented groups to apply. The position is available immediately and is for a two-year term.

To apply, please submit a cover letter, CV, and contact information for three references to Dr Kerneels Jaars (kerneels.jaars@nwu.ac.za) and Prof Pieter van Zyl (pieter.vanzyl@nwu.ac.za). Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

The University subscribes to and applies the principles of the Employment Equity Act and is committed to transformation.

The University reserves the right not to make an appointment. If you are not contacted within two months from the closing date of this advertisement, please accept that your application was unsuccessful.