Postdoctoral Researcher in Environmental Analytical Chemistry at University of British Columbia, Canada

Summary

The Scholes Lab at the University of British Columbia is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to conduct cutting-edge research on trace organic contaminants in urban stormwater. As part of a multi-year collaborative initiative partnering with First Nations, streamkeeper groups, academic institutions, and municipal, regional, and provincial governments, this position focuses on developing source-specific contaminant profiles across diverse urban landscapes to better understand and mitigate road runoff pollution.

Postdoctoral Researcher in Environmental Analytical Chemistry at University of British Columbia, Canada

Designation

Postdoctoral Researcher (Post-Doc)

Summary Table

Research Area

• Environmental Analytical Chemistry
• Urban Stormwater & Road Runoff Contaminant Analysis and Treatment
• Liquid Chromatography with Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) & High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry (HRMS)

Location

University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada

Eligibility / Qualification

Required Qualifications

• Education: Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering, Environmental Chemistry, or a closely related field.
• Technical Expertise: Prior experience and significant expertise in analyzing organic contaminants using liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS).
• Publications: Demonstrated ability to publish research in high-quality peer-reviewed journals.
• Communication: Strong oral and written communication skills.

Desirable Qualifications

• Experience with analytical method development and high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) for suspect or non-target screening.
• Significant experience in sample preparation (e.g., solid-phase extraction) of environmental samples.
• Experience working alongside non-academic partners, including Indigenous and community-based groups.
• Familiarity with road runoff contaminants.
• Prior experience mentoring students in a laboratory environment.

Job Description

The Postdoctoral Researcher will work within a collaborative team of graduate and undergraduate researchers. Key duties and responsibilities include:

• Developing source-specific organic contaminant profiles across urban environments.
• Applying advanced mass spectrometry analytical methods to analyze stormwater samples.
• Preparing high-impact research manuscripts and formal project reports.
• Coordinating activities with external collaborators and municipal, regional, provincial, and Indigenous partners.
• Presenting research findings at national and international professional conferences.
• Mentoring junior laboratory members and fostering an inclusive, supportive research environment.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a single PDF document directly to Dr. Rachel Scholes via email at rachel.scholes@ubc.ca.

Your application PDF must include:

1. Cover letter outlining your research and career goals
2. Complete Curriculum Vitae (CV)
3. Copy of one representative research publication
4. Contact information for three professional references

Last Date for Apply

September 14, 2026 (Applications submitted after this date may be considered on a rolling basis until the position is filled).

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