at University of Illinois in Urbana, Illinois, United States
Job Description
Chemical EngineerIllinois Sustainable Technology Center
Prairie Research Institute
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
The Prairie Research Institute (PRI) is seeking to hire an Chemical Engineer (Official Title: Senior Scientific Specialist, Chemical Engineering) to participate in research related to biochar production and application as well as remediation of emerging chemical contaminants such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PAFS). In particular, there is an interest in generating designer biochar as a cost-effective sorbent to efficiently remove PFAS from contaminated water and as a catalyst to destroy PFAS using hydrothermal technology.
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The Illinois Sustainable Technology Center ( ISTC ) is part of the Prairie Research Institute (PRI) at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, which is centrally located between Chicago, St. Louis, and Indianapolis. ISTC integrates applied research, technical assistance, and information services to advance efforts in the areas of pollution prevention; water and energy conservation; and materials recycling and beneficial reuse. ISTC is part of the Prairie Research Institute (PRI) at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, which is centrally located between Chicago, St. Louis, and Indianapolis. Learn more at https://prairie.illinois.edu/about/jobs/
Job Summary
Participate in research related to biochar production and application as well as remediation of emerging chemical contaminants such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PAFS). In particular, there is an interest in generating designer biochar as a cost-effective sorbent to efficiently remove PFAS from contaminated water and as a catalyst to destroy PFAS using hydrothermal technology.
Duties & Responsibilities
- 85% Research Assist in the design and execution of laboratory, greenhouse, and/or field experiments for proof of scientific concepts related to research topics. Conduct laboratory analysis of emerging chemical contaminants (e.g., PFAS) for a variety of environmental samples (e.g., water, soil, and crop plants). Conduct characterization of sorbents using advanced analytical instrumentation. Operate pilot-scale pelletizer and pyrolysis reactor to produce designer biochars for field application. Review and interpret research results to assure validity and quality control. Provide technical content for project reports. Ensure the safety of staff and equipment. Write and publish scientific articles. Identify research needs and project opportunities based on discussions with collaborators and potential funding sources. Assist in developing responses to federal, state, commercial, and foundation funding opportunities announcements. Travel within and outside the state of Illinois to conduct field experiments, which may include work outside of normal business hours and overnight stays.
- 10% Outreach Respond to requests for information and provide technical expertise to PRI staff, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, academia, industry, and the general public. Attend, participate in, and contribute to professional meetings, conferences, and workshops. Contribute in the areas of education, outreach, and/or other services to ISTC, PRI, UIUC, and the state of Illinois. Enhance the reputation of ISTC and PRI at the state, national, and international level.
- 5% Other Keep abreast of developments in this discipline. Perform other duties as needed to further the mission and goals of PRI.
Field work will involve exposure to outdoor temperatures and include lifting and moving equipment or samples (up to 50 pounds).
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in environmental science, environmental chemistry or engineering, chemistry or chemical engineering, agricultural and biological engineering, or related discipline. Alternate degree fields will be considered/accepted depending on the nature and depth of the experience as it relates to this position. Scientific background with PFAS research experience. Valid driver's license.
Preferred Qualifications
Master or Ph.D 's degree in environmental science, environmental chemistry or engineering, chemistry or chemical engineering, agricultural and biological engineering, or related discipline. Alternate degree fields will be considered/accepted depending on the nature and depth of the experience as it relates to this position.
Laboratory experience with thermal conversion techniques (e.g., pyrolysis and hydrothermal treatment), analytical instrumentation operation, or mitigation of emerging contaminants is preferred.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Effective communication, personal relations, collaboration, organizational, teamwork, and leadership skills. Demonstrated ability to perform effectively in a diverse and fast- paced work environment consisting of multiple dynamic priorities with stringent deadlines, under minimal supervision. Attention to detail, sound judgment, and strong conflict resolution skills. Affinity for cooperative or interdisciplinary research with scientists at the Survey, professionals at other Surveys or other academic units, as well as governmental and other academic institutions. Proficiency in commonly employed software, databases and project management tools.
This is a 100% full-time Academic Professional position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after 7/16/2024. Salary is commensurate with experience, while also considering internal equity. The minimum starting salary is $63,000.
Benefits: The University of Illinois offers a wide variety of benefits https://www.hr.uillinois.edu/benefits, including paid leave https://www.hr.uillinois.edu/leave and holidays https://www.hr.uillinois.edu/leave/holidays
Application Procedures & Deadline Information
Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on August 7th 2024 . Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. Application materials must include a 1) a cover letter that clearly articulates how your qualifications and experience make you a viable candidate for this position and should address the qualifications listed above, 2) a CV or resume, and 3) the names and contact information including e-mail addresses of three professional references. All requested information and documentation must be submitted for applications to be considered. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. Interviews may occur before the close date but no decisions or offers will be made until after.For further information about this specific position, please contact Jon Freiman HR Business Partner at jcf@illinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.
The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify .
Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodations portal , or by contacting the Accessibility & Accommodations Division of the Office for Access and Equity at 217-333-0885, or by emailing accessibility@illinois.edu .
Requisition ID: 1025418
Job Category: Research
Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu
