The Department of Chemistry at Carleton University is accepting applications for a one-year postdoctoral fellowship in the Rand Laboratory. The anticipated start date is February 1, 2027 or as mutually agreed. The postdoctoral fellow will investigate emerging sources of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and other organofluorine compounds in consumer materials using complementary targeted and high-resolution mass spectrometry methods.

Department Background 

The Department of Chemistry at Carleton University is located in Ottawa, Canada. Its research spans analytical, environmental, biological, inorganic, organic, physical, and theoretical chemistry, with strong connections across Carleton's interdisciplinary research institutes and external partners. More information is available at https://carleton.ca/chemistry/.

Research Project Overview

The Rand Laboratory combines environmental analytical chemistry with complementary approaches in materials characterization and molecular toxicology to study the sources, fate, and effects of emerging contaminants. A major focus of the group is understanding why known analytes account for only a fraction of the organofluorine measured in commercially and environmentally relevant samples. The postdoctoral fellow's primary project will investigate poorly characterized sources of PFAS and other organofluorine compounds associated with consumer materials. The work will integrate targeted GC- and LC-MS analysis and high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry to detect and characterize unresolved compounds and chemical patterns. The fellow will work in a collaborative environment, contribute to related analytical projects, and mentor trainees.

Position Duties and Responsibilities

Under the direction of Dr. Amy Rand, the postdoctoral fellow will lead research activities associated with the project, including the following core responsibilities:

• Design and conduct experiments investigating sources of PFAS and other organofluorine compounds in complex consumer materials.

• Develop, optimize, and apply sample preparation and instrumental workflows for targeted and nontarget organofluorine analysis.

• Use high-resolution accurate-mass data, tandem mass spectra, and complementary chemical information to prioritize and characterize unknown features.

• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot high-resolution mass spectrometry instrumentation and associated chromatography systems.

• Process, interpret, document, and communicate complex high-resolution mass spectrometry data.

• Coordinate research activities and milestones across collaborative projects.

• Prepare manuscripts, reports, presentations, and other research outputs.

• Train and mentor graduate and undergraduate researchers in laboratory methods, instrumental analysis, data analysis, and safe research practices.

Job Requirements

• A completed PhD in analytical chemistry, environmental chemistry, mass spectrometry, or a closely related field by the appointment start date.

• Demonstrated experience with mass spectrometry, including instrument operation, troubleshooting, and data analysis.

• Experience with LC-HRMS and/or GC-HRMS; experience with QTOF-MS, PFAS or organofluorine analysis, nontarget analysis, or the characterization of complex mixtures is preferred.

• Experience in independent experimental design and analytical method development or optimization.

• Strong scientific writing, oral communication, organizational, and collaborative skills.

• Ability to manage multiple project activities and work effectively both independently and as part of a research team.

• Experience training or mentoring others in laboratory methods or analytical chemistry is an asset.

Appointment Information

The initial appointment is for one year, with the possibility of extension subject to satisfactory performance and availability of funding. The postdoctoral fellow may enrol in an extended health and dental benefit plan. The position is unionized, and the successful candidate will be a member of PSAC Local 77000. Information about the bargaining unit is available at https://psac77000.ca/.

Accommodations and Accessibility

Should you require a copy of this posting in an alternate format, please contact us as soon as possible, and we would be happy to provide one in a timely manner. We believe in supporting on-the-job success for the incumbent and are pleased to discuss and/or provide specific tools, resources, or other requirements for day-to-day work, as needed.

About Carleton University

Carleton University is a dynamic and innovative research and teaching institution with a national and international reputation as a leader in collaborative teaching and learning, research, and governance. To learn more about the University and the City of Ottawa, please visit https://carleton.ca/provost/. Carleton University is committed to fostering diversity within its community as a source of excellence, cultural enrichment, and social strength. We welcome those who would contribute to the further diversification of our university, including, but not limited to, women; visible minorities; First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples; persons with disabilities; and persons of any sexual orientation, gender identity, and/or expression. Carleton understands that career paths vary. Legitimate career interruptions will not prejudice the assessment process, and we will carefully consider their impact.

 

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, we will contact only those selected for an interview. If you are contacted for an interview, please let us know if you require accommodation, and we will make arrangements in a timely manner. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply.

How to Apply

Candidates are invited to submit the following materials as a single PDF:

• A cover letter describing their interest in the position and relevant research experience.

• A curriculum vitae.

• The names and contact information of three references.

Please email the application to amy.rand@carleton.ca with the subject line “Postdoctoral Fellowship Application” by October 26, 2026. Questions about the position may be directed to Dr. Amy Rand at amy.rand@carleton.ca