Postdoctoral Fellow in Environmental Engineering

Overview

Engineering a world of possibilities

The Higgins Research Group is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to study poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in environmental systems.

This position offers the opportunity to work at the forefront of PFAS research, focusing on their fate, transport, transformation, and remediation in water, soil, and engineered systems. The successful candidate will conduct research and publish reports and journal articles on PFASs in concrete, PFAS treatment technologies, PFAS environmental transport, and volatilization of PFASs. This wide variety of projects will require the candidate to work with an array of partners and collaborators. Most projects will require direct quantification of PFASs via LC-MS analysis or working with data from previously analyzed datasets.

Position Description

Candidates should have a Ph.D. in the general area of environmental engineering or environmental chemistry, with experience in laboratory experimentation. The ideal candidate would also have experience with chemical measurements such as measuring PFASs in environmental samples.

The successful candidate will need to:

1. Conduct bench-scale laboratory experiments
2. Conduct PFAS analysis of field and laboratory-derived samples
3. Assist in managing a research group of graduate students

Funding is initially available for one year, with the possibility of extension if additional research funding is available and adequate progress is being made. The position is expected to start June 1, 2026, though an earlier or later start date may be negotiated. Candidates must have completed their Ph.D. by the start date.

Primary Responsibilities

• Lead independent research activities in collaboration with faculty advisor(s)
• Participate in weekly research meetings with faculty advisor(s)
• Participate in larger project team meetings and support project reporting activities
• Conduct physical experiments on PFAS treatment at the laboratory scale
• Write scientific publications, reports, policy briefs, and guidelines
• Support or lead preparation of research funding proposals
• Mentor graduate students through weekly meetings
• Present findings at conferences and organize workshops

Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience

• Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering, Chemistry, Geosciences, or related fields
• Experience with laboratory experiments and/or environmental chemical analysis

Preferred Qualifications

Education and Experience

• Experience with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs)
• Experience with environmental chemistry laboratory experiments
• Experience with LC-MS analysis of organic chemicals
• Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Expertise in analytical chemistry and/or environmental modeling
• Experience with PFAS or emerging contaminants strongly preferred
• Ability to program in Python, R, or MATLAB
• Ability to work independently
• Strong writing and communication skills
• Ability to mentor undergraduate and graduate students

About Colorado School of Mines (Mines) & Golden, CO

When the world looks for answers, the world looks to Mines.

Colorado School of Mines is a top-ranked public university solving grand challenges in Earth, energy, and the environment. Founded in 1874, Mines has expanded its mission beyond mining and metallurgy to modern engineering and applied science fields.

Mines is ranked among the top public universities in the U.S. and is recognized for innovation and STEM education excellence. The institution is classified as an R1 “Very High Research Activity” university.

Mines emphasizes transformational education, strong research output, and high return on investment for students and researchers.

Compensation

Annual Salary: $61,000 – $64,000

Salary is determined based on education, training, experience, scope of the role, and internal and external market conditions.

Benefits Highlights

• Flexible health and dental care options
• 13 paid holidays per year, including winter break
• Generous sick and vacation time
• Fully vested retirement plan from day one with strong employer contributions
• Tuition benefits (6 credits/year for employees; 50% discount for dependents)
• Free RTD EcoPass
• Access to recreation center and campus facilities
• On-campus daycare center

Application Instructions

Applicants should apply online as soon as possible but before Monday, April 13, 2026. Late applications may or may not be considered.

Applicants must submit:

• Resume/CV

References will not be requested until later in the selection process.

Contact

Dorie Gelber
Human Resources
dorie.gelber@mines.edu

HR general inquiries: hr@mines.edu | 303-273-3250

Additional Information

• Background investigation required prior to start
• Reasonable accommodations available under ADA
• Equal opportunity employer

Equal Opportunity Statement

Colorado School of Mines does not discriminate on the basis of protected characteristics including age, sex, gender identity, race, ethnicity, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, or others protected by law.