Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Sustainable Water Infrastructure

American University of Sharjah; Sharjah; On-site; AED 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

The American University of Sharjah is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Sustainable Water Infrastructure. This role focuses on research addressing emerging pollutants and smart monitoring systems, emphasizing solutions for sustainable water management in Sharjah and the UAE. The successful candidate will work collaboratively, develop innovative approaches, and contribute significantly to environmental research efforts.

Qualifications

• PhD required in relevant engineering fields.
• Experience in research and contaminants in water systems.
• Strong publication record in relevant journals.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate contamination and treatment technologies in water systems.
• Develop AI/ML monitoring systems for sustainable infrastructure.
• Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals.

Skills

Research experience in contaminant assessment

Proficiency with lab instruments

Strong technical skills in modeling

Strong communication skills in English

Education

PhD in Civil Engineering

PhD in Environmental Engineering

PhD in Chemical Engineering

Tools

GC-MS

ICP-MS

SEM

XRD

AFM

BET

Job description

Post: Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Sustainable Water Infrastructure

Position Summary

To lead interdisciplinary research in sustainable water infrastructure systems, with a focus on emerging pollutants, smart monitoring, climate resilience, and water-energy co-optimization. The postdoctoral fellow will evaluate pollution in water supply and distribution networks, design treatment and brine management strategies, and develop data-driven models for sustainable infrastructure and water security in Sharjah and across the UAE.

Job Responsibilities

• Evaluate the presence of emerging contaminants (e.g., microplastics, pharmaceuticals) in water, wastewater, and stormwater systems.
• Study the role of infrastructure materials in mobilizing micropollutants, especially in desalination plants and distribution networks.
• Assess and improve treatment and pretreatment technologies, including chemical oxidation and sustainable brine management.
• Investigate smart leak detection, pipe degradation, and distribution system resilience.
• Model climate change impacts on water infrastructure and propose adaptation strategies.
• Develop AI/ML-based monitoring systems and IoT integration for infrastructure management.
• Analyze the co-optimization of water and energy distribution systems.
• Publish research outcomes in leading peer-reviewed journals.
• Contribute to writing technical reports and grant deliverables.
• Mentor and collaborate with graduate students and junior researchers.
• Participate in project meetings and communicate findings to stakeholders.
• Participate in organizing conferences and workshops.
  
  

Qualifications And Skills Required

• PhD in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related fields.
• Research experience in contaminant assessment, water treatment, and infrastructure systems.
• Proficiency with lab instruments (GC-MS, ICP-MS, SEM, XRD, AFM, BET, etc.) and simulation/modeling tools.
• Demonstrated publication record in high-impact journals and conference proceedings.
• Expertise in emerging pollutants and water distribution systems.
• Strong technical skills in modeling, simulation, and analytical instrumentation.
• Ability to work across interdisciplinary teams and support graduate student mentorship.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications And Skills

• Interdisciplinary background in smart infrastructure systems, environmental modeling, or the water-energy nexus.
• Experience in climate resilience modeling, smart city infrastructure, or brine treatment design.
• Application of AI and machine learning in water system management.
  
  

How To Apply

• Interested applicants should fill out this form.
• AUS alumni are encouraged to apply. Applicants who do not meet specified requirements will not be shortlisted. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• AUS is an equal opportunity employer. We adhere to a policy of making employment decisions without regard to race, color, age, gender, religion, national origin, disability or marital status. Opportunities for employment are based solely upon one’s qualifications.