POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCH ASSOCIATE - MCDONOUGH LAB

Carnegie Mellon University: Mellon College of Science: Chemistry

Location

Pittsburgh, PA

Open Date

Jan 06, 2026

Description

The McDonough laboratory in the Department of Chemistry at Carnegie Mellon University is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to work on projects related to bioaccumulation, biomonitoring, and high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) analysis of organic contaminants. Our research group blends environmental analytical chemistry and chemical biology to study environmental and biological (i.e., toxicokinetics) fate of organic contaminants. Much of our current work centers around characterizing complex commercially- or environmentally-relevant per/polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) mixtures and describing their behavior in living things.


The postdoctoral researcher’s projects will focus primarily on HRMS analysis of bioaccumulative PFASs and microbial transformation products of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) using an Agilent 6560 ion mobility quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometer (IM-QTOF-MS) coupled with gas chromatography and atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (GC-APCI) and with liquid chromatography and electrospray ionization (LC-ESI). We are a highly collaborative group with opportunities to contribute to multiple projects (comfortability and experience diving time among multiple projects is a plus).

Qualifications

Experience with mass spectrometry, including instrument operation, troubleshooting, and data analysis, are required. Experience with LC-HRMS and/or GC-HRMS are preferred. Other desired skills include experience with independent experimental design and analytical method optimization, training others in laboratory skills and analytical chemistry, and strong writing and communication skills.

Application Instructions

Applications, including a cover letter and a curriculum vitae indicating your interest and relevant training, should be submitted electronically via Interfolio.

Interested applicants, feel free to contact Dr. Carrie McDonough ([email protected]) with any questions.

Application Process

This institution is using Interfolio's Faculty Search to conduct this search. Applicants to this position receive a free Dossier account and can send all application materials, including confidential letters of recommendation, free of charge.