Faculty Research Assistant-Microalgae Optimization

University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science; Maryland; On-site; USD 50,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science invites applications for a Faculty Research Assistant – Microalgae Optimization at Horn Point Laboratory. You will lead experimental research and modeling to advance microalgae biomass and carbonate ion production for SequestStar, working across disciplines to move the technology toward commercialization.

You will collaborate with the Algae Optimization Team, conduct optimization experiments, analyze results, and contribute to reports

Qualifications

• B.Sc. required at start of employment period.
• Experience in algal physiology, bioreactor culture and maintenance is required.

Responsibilities

• Lead experimental research and modeling to optimize microalgae biomass and carbonate ion production.
• Develop and validate models related to microalgae biomass and carbonate ion production.
• Prepare reports and papers for the program.
• Collaborate with the Algae Optimization Team.

Skills

Algal physiology

Bioreactor culture

Bioreactor maintenance

Education

B.Sc. in a relevant field

Job description

Job Description Summary & Additional Information

We are seeking to fill an Faculty Research Assistant – Microalgae Optimization position for the National Science Foundation Convergence Accelerator Track M project entitled “SequestStar:

capturing carbon and reusing waste streams.” Our vision for the Phase 2 Convergence Accelerator is to advance the SequestStar technology down the path to commercialization with significant input from end users. SequestStar will be an economically viable and environmentally-friendly biomanufacturing process that captures carbon dioxide from the air.

Bringing together microalgae and the waste streams of desalination plants, SequestStar will create calcium carbonate and algae products that can lower the carbon footprint of multiple industries. During this project, we will create an Input-to-Product pilot system, test industrial scale components, simultaneously optimize microalgae bioproducts and carbon-capture PCC production, conduct market research, carbon footprint, and techno-economic analyses, develop a Front-End Engineering Design of an industrial-scale facility, and participate fully in the Convergence Accelerator curriculum.

We are looking for people who enjoy working across disciplines in a large and diverse team to create new technologies with significant societal impact. Additional information can be found at http://SequestStar.com.

Based at the Horn Point Laboratory, and mentored by Dr. Greg Silsbe, the successful candidate will take an important role in experimental research, model development and report/paper preparation related to this program. The Faculty Research Assistant will take a leading role in conducting a series of optimization experiments to enhance microalgae biomass and carbonate ion production, and serve as a key member of the Algae Optimization Team.

Required Qualifications:

A B.Sc. is required at the beginning of the period of employment. Experience in algal physiology, bioreactor culture and maintenance is required.

Required Application Materials: (1) a cover letter describing relevant research experience, interests and goals, (2) a current CV or resume, and (3) contact information for three references.

Best Consideration Date: October 15, 2026

Open Until Filled: yes

Department

UMCES - Horn Point Laboratory

Worker Sub-Type

Faculty Regular

Salary Range

$50,000 to $55,000

EEO Statement

The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science is an equal opportunity employer. The Center’s policies, programs, and activities are in conformance with pertinent Federal and State laws and regulations on nondiscrimination regarding race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, and disability. Inquiries regarding compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Title IX of the Educational Amendments; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973; and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990; or related legal requirements should be directed to the Assistant Vice President of Human Resources, Center Administration, 2020 Horns Point Rd, Cambridge, MD 21613.