1. General Description (research group)

The overall goal at the Department for Environmental Geosciences (EDGE) is to understand the fate of pollutants in environmental systems, assess their impact on environmental systems, and inform solutions towards a healthy environment. Prof. Hofmann's research (https://edge.univie.ac.at/people/thilo-hofmann) focuses on the behavior of environmental micropollutants including nanoparticles and plastics. EDGE is part of the new Centre for Microbiology and Environmental Systems Science, which offers great opportunities at the interface of microbial and terrestrial ecology, microbiome research, computational biology, and environmental science.

2. Job Description for the Moritz Schlick position

Chemical pollution of natural environments is one of the most pressing global problems and one of three planetary crises next to climate change and biodiversity loss. Chemicals emitted to the environment might be very persistent, so-called forever chemicals, and remain in the environment for centuries, with adverse effect to humans and ecosystem health.

To address these problems, we are seeking an individual with an excellent track record and international reputation in the field of environmental micropollutants. The candidates research topics might include, but are not limited to, environmental transformation and mobility of anthropogenic pollutants, fate and remediation of vPvM/PMT substances, perturbations of environmental systems by xenobiotics, (eco)toxicology beyond single organisms, and interactions between micropollutants and geochemical interfaces.

We are particularly interested in individuals whose research focuses on emerging contaminants such as very persistent very mobile(vPvM), persistent mobile and toxic (PMT) substances, or toxic plastic additives, and solutions for a healthier environment.

In this position, a one-time financial contribution of € 100K will be made available.

3. Qualification profile (minimum)

The candidate must have expertise in quantitative experimental research using state of the art analytical tools. They must work towards a process-level understanding of the environmental fate and/or effects of anthropogenic pollutants. The candidate’s research must complement EDGE’s research profile on aquatic and/or terrestrial systems. The candidate must have an excellent international scientific track record and reputation, as well as a clear and innovative research and teaching profile and concept. Links in the research profile to other groups of the Centre of Microbiology and Environmental Systems Science are encouraged.

4. Qualification profile (additional skills, necessary language, IT qualifications etc.)

Excellent communication and writing skills, excellent team player, excellent analytical skills in environmental analytical chemistry (e.g., high resolution mass spectrometry), documented knowledge of experimental design, excellent skills in data treatment and analysis, including modern computational techniques.

5. Research Fields (keywords)

Environmental Sciences, Environmental Chemistry

6. Mentor

The additional mentor for this position is Stephan Krämer

7.    Earliest start date:

February, 2023.

8. Public Hearings & Interviews

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