PhD Assistantship in Great Lakes Sediments

We are seeking a highly motivated, independent, and creative graduate student interested in Great Lakes research to join our team at the University of Minnesota Duluth. A successful candidate will join an interdisciplinary team of geochemists, analytical chemists, limnologists, and ecologists to investigate the fluxes and sources of pollutants and the impact of sediment source and organic geochemistry on pollutant fluxes and transformations. This is a fully-funded PhD position with funding available for at least four years starting Fall 2021.

We seek a candidate with strong analytical and/or geochemistry skills, including experience with LCMS and/or GCMS, quantitative analysis of trace organics, and general experience in wet lab extraction, cleanup, and preparation of samples. Additionally, the ideal candidate would have experience with fieldwork, including shipboard, strong oral and written communication skills, and an interest in limnology and the Great Lakes. The student will work between two interdisciplinary research units on the University of Minnesota Duluth campus: the Natural Resources Research Institute and the Large Lakes Observatory, and will pursue their PhD in Water Resources Science, an interdisciplinary graduate program that spans science and engineering disciplines across the University of Minnesota Duluth and the University of Minnesota Twin Cities.

The University of Minnesota Duluth is the second-largest university in the Minnesota University system, and is located on the beautiful western shore of Lake Superior. Duluth, MN, recently voted the best town in America by readers of Outside magazine, contains hundreds of miles of hiking, mountain biking, running, and skiing trails within the city limits as well as beaches, breweries, restaurants, and other cultural activities.

The University of Minnesota Duluth, including the Natural Resources Research Institute and the Large Lakes Observatory, recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission by embracing each person’s unique contributions, background, and perspectives. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds. The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. The University of Minnesota is an equal opportunity educator and employer. Therefore, we especially encourage applications from students from groups traditionally underrepresented in STEM fields, including veterans, women, people of color, indigenous peoples, and others.

To apply, please send a CV, Letter of Intent, undergraduate and (if applicable) graduate transcripts, and contact information for three professional references to Kathryn Schreiner (kschrein@d.umn.edu) and Bridget Ulrich (ulrichb@d.umn.edu). For more information about the position, please contact Dr. Schreiner or Dr. Ulrich.