Postdoctoral Fellowship in Ecotoxicology

Organization
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
Reference Code
NOAA-NCCOS-2022-05
How to Apply

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A complete application package consists of:

  • An application
  • Transcript(s) – For this opportunity, an unofficial transcript or copy of the student academic records printed by the applicant or by academic advisors from internal institution systems may be submitted.  Selected candidate must provide proof of completion of the degree before the appointment can start.  Click Here for detailed information about acceptable transcripts.
  • A current resume/CV
  • Two educational or professional recommendations

All documents must be in English or include an official English translation.

Application Deadline
4/22/2022 3:00:00 PM Eastern Time Zone
Description

*Applications will be reviewed on a rolling-basis.

NOAA Office/Lab and Location: A research opportunity is currently available with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Ocean Service (NOS), National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS), Stressor Detection and Impacts Division (SDI), Ecotoxicology Branch located in Charleston, South Carolina. The appointment may be eligible for remote participation.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) formed the National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) in 1999 as the focal point for NOAA’s coastal ocean science efforts. NCCOS helps NOAA meet its coastal stewardship and management responsibilities, and provides coastal managers with the scientific information necessary to decide how best to protect environmental resources and public health, preserve valued habitats, and improve the way communities interact with coastal ecosystems.

Research ProjectThe Ecotoxicology Branch characterizes the lethal and sublethal effects of chemical contaminants on estuarine fish and invertebrates. This research includes laboratory based toxicity testing as well as mesocosm and field level assessments. The contaminants of interest include chemicals of emerging concern such as PFAS and pharmaceuticals, persistent organic pollutants such as organochlorines and PCBs, and oil and oil spill mitigation chemicals. The ecotoxicology data generated are intended to support coastal resource managers, regulatory agencies, researchers, and the public.

Learning Objectives: Under the guidance of a technical mentor, the selected participant will gain experience in elucidating the mechanisms of toxicity in a variety of environmental contaminants including PFOS and PFAS compounds and novel alternatives to PFAS compounds. The participant will collaborate with laboratory staff in both acute and chronic toxicity exposures of adult and larvae stages of estuarine fish and crustaceans. The participant will collect and analyze the data produced and will collaborate with staff on recommending the next steps needed. The goal of this educational opportunity will be to characterize mechanisms of toxicity for select contaminants in estuarine fish and crustaceans and to learn new methods in contaminant biomarker assays. This research will be in support of the NCCOS priority of Detecting, Monitoring, and Mitigating Impacts of Chemical and Biological Stressors.

MentorThe mentor for this opportunity is Pete Key (pete.key@noaa.gov). If you have questions about the nature of the research please contact the mentor.

Anticipated Appointment Start Date: June 2022.  Start date is flexible and will depend on a variety of factors.

Appointment LengthThe appointment will initially be for one year, but may be renewed upon recommendation of NOAA and is contingent on the availability of funds.

Level of ParticipationThe appointment is full-time.

Participant StipendThe participant will receive a monthly stipend commensurate with educational level and experience.

Citizenship RequirementsThis opportunity is available to U.S. citizens only.

ORISE InformationThis program, administered by ORAU through its contract with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to manage the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE), was established through an interagency agreement between DOE and NOAA. Participants do not become employees of NOAA, DOE or the program administrator, and there are no employment-related benefits. Proof of health insurance is required for participation in this program. Health insurance can be obtained through ORISE.

Questions: If you have questions about the application process please email NOAA@orau.org and include the reference code for this opportunity.

Qualifications

The qualified candidate should have received a doctoral degree in one of the relevant fields., or be currently pursuing the degree with completion by the end of May 2022.

Preferred skills/experience:

  • Studying the differences in effects and metabolism of structurally similar chemicals
  • Conducting aquatic toxicity tests with fish and invertebrates
  • Conducting assays of biomarker exposure
  • Interpreting results of toxicity testing and biomarker assays including statistical analysis
  • Presenting posters and presentations at national and international scientific meetings
  • Writing reports and manuscripts for publication
  • Husbandry of aquatic animals
  • Using spectrophotometers, fluorometers, microscopes, and related laboratory equipment
  • Using pipettes, maintaining a clean laboratory workspace, and communicating well with others
  • Ability to perform research independently and in a group setting
Eligibility Requirements
  • Citizenship: U.S. Citizen Only
  • Degree: Doctoral Degree.
  • Overall GPA: 3.50
  • Discipline(s):
    • Environmental and Marine Sciences (4 )
    • Life Health and Medical Sciences (7 )
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