PFAS Aquatic Toxicology Research Opportunity

Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education; Duluth (MN); On-site; USD 45,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education in Duluth, MN offers a research opportunity to study PFAS, conduct aquatic toxicity and bioaccumulation tests under EPA mentorship. The role emphasizes hands-on lab work, data analysis, and potential manuscript preparation; requires a bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, toxicology, or related field, with strong computational and communication skills. Stipend provided; full-time appointment starting Fall/Winter 2026.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, toxicology, or a related field, or pursuing a degree that will be completed by the start date.
• Two or more undergraduate chemistry and two or more biology courses, plus research experience.
• Computational experience (e.g., spreadsheets, R), strong communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement laboratory-based aquatic toxicity and bioaccumulation experiments under mentor guidance.
• Prepare laboratory exposure systems and monitor equipment function.
• Handle experimental chemicals and prepare exposure solutions.
• Perform organism handling and monitoring.
• Prepare samples for analytical chemistry measurements.
• Use instrumentation (GC, HPLC, MS, MS/MS, Orbitrap) to quantify PFAS and assess uptake in biota.
• Record data per QA guidelines and analyze laboratory results.
• Present findings at meetings and assist with manuscripts for publication.

Skills

Computational experience

Oral & written communication

Literature search tools

Aquatic organisms experience

Weekend availability

Education

Bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, toxicology, or related field

Job description

Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education in Duluth, MN offers a research opportunity to study PFAS, conduct aquatic toxicity and bioaccumulation tests under EPA mentorship. The role emphasizes hands-on lab work, data analysis, and potential manuscript preparation; requires a bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, toxicology, or related field, with strong computational and communication skills. Stipend provided; full-time appointment starting Fall/Winter 2026.