Postdoctoral Fellow in Stream Biogeochemistry — USGS Powell Center Synthesis on Metals in Freshwaters, Kent State University
The USGS Powell Center working group "Defining subsidy–stress gradients for metals and relevance for US surface waters" is searching for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow. This synthesis group is funded jointly by the U.S. Geological Survey and NSF Critical Zone Network and convenes an international team of ecologists, ecotoxicologists, geochemists, and mathematicians. This research team is synthesizing data on metals in the freshwater environment to gain understanding about the role of essential metals in river and stream ecosystems.
The Postdoctoral Fellow will work closely with the working group PIs to coordinate in-person and remote activities, synthesize data, and lead and contribute to publications. We seek a highly motivated individual with the flexibility to work independently and collaboratively and with strong organizational and leadership skills. We welcome applicants from across disciplines and encourage applications from scholars with expertise or interests in environmental metals. The Research Fellow will be funded for a minimum of 2 years, which is the timeframe of the synthesis activities, and includes competitive salary, benefits, and travel to Fort Collins, CO for a working group. The Research Fellow position will be at Kent State University supervised by PI Dave Costello, but with additional guidance from PIs Elizabeth Herndon (Oak Ridge National Laboratory), Angie Peace (Texas Tech U), and Travis Schmidt (USGS). To apply for this position, please send your CV, cover letter, and list of 3 professional references to Dave Costello (dcostel3@kent.edu). Applications received by August 15, 2025 will receive full consideration.
Qualifications:
A PhD in Biology, Ecology, Environmental Toxicology, Earth Sciences, Geochemistry, Hydrology, Data Science, Applied Mathematics, or a related field. Prior contributions to team research, a desire to contribute to interdisciplinary synthesis, and a willingness to develop leadership skills. Experience with the creation of scientific products like datasets and/or peer reviewed publications. Aptitude for data management and programming (R and/or Python).