Emory University is a leading research university that fosters excellence and attracts world-class talent to innovate today and prepare leaders for the future. We welcome candidates who can contribute to the diversity and excellence of our academic community.

The Saikawa lab in the Department of Environmental Sciences at Emory University is hiring a postdoctoral researcher to join the lab. We are interested in a researcher with strong analytical skillsets and background in climate modeling, with a passion for environmental justice and community-engaged research. Our work focuses on soil contamination, air pollution, and climate change.

JOB DESCRIPTION: Helps design and conduct research within a specified field while receiving advanced training from a designated Principal Investigator to enhance professional skills and research independence needed for pursuit of a career. The specific area of research in which the trainee is mentored is determined by the department and laboratory of the Postdoc. Designs and evaluates experiments. Develops new ideas that promote current research. Prepares and publishes scientific manuscripts under the direction of the Principal Investigator. May be responsible for operation of specific equipment. May teach techniques to others, train, and supervise research staff. Positions are temporary appointments as a research trainee. The initial appointment is for one year, renewal expected if progress is satisfactory and funds are available. Appointments cannot exceed five years.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: A doctoral degree or equivalent (Ph.D., M.D., ScD., D.V.M., DDS etc) in an appropriate field. Excellent scientific writing ability and strong oral communication skills. The ability to work effectively and collegially with colleagues. Additional qualifications as specified by the Principal Investigator.

ADDITIONAL JOB DESCRIPTION AND DETAILS: Helps design and conduct interdisciplinary research on climate and health, while receiving advanced training not only from the PI of the project (Saria Hassan in the School of Medicine and Eri Saikawa) but also from all investigators involved (Yang Liu and Noah Scovronick in Rollins School of Public Health; Na’Taki Osborne Jelks at Spelman University; and Yomi Noibi and Lynne Young at ECO Action). The goal of this project is to understand how the cumulative health impact of chemical and non-chemical exposures is exacerbated by climate change among the most vulnerable communities in Atlanta. This position will be instrumental in working on the first objective, which is to create an index and map at the neighborhood level focused on the cumulative chemical and non-chemical exposure of individuals in Atlanta and how their health effects are exacerbated by climate change.

The core responsibilities will include:

• Research, analyze, and create an environmental vulnerability index
• Analyze model simulations of Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6)
• Visualize findings for stakeholders and document research results for scientific audience
• Plan, coordinate, and distribute information for meetings, conferences and publications

Our lab has worked in the Westside neighborhood since 2018 and has conducted community-engaged participatory research. Together with community partners, we found lead contamination and it has led to the area becoming a Superfund site. We believe in working with community members to find answers not only to our scientific questions but also that are meaningful to the residents. Candidates with expertise in community-engaged participatory research in atmospheric science, climate science, environmental engineering, or environmental health, or related fields with knowledge on climate modeling and/or air pollution modeling, along with strong oral and written communication skills, are encouraged to apply. The ideal candidate will bring enthusiasm and creativity to visualizing and using data to communicate the importance of exposures to community members in the Westside of Atlanta. We are looking for candidates that demonstrate strong analytical skills and are able to take initiatives and coordinate various stakeholders, while conducting research. An interest in mentoring and training junior members of the lab is extremely important. We value a diverse, supportive, and collaborative environment that facilitates independence and career growth.

Positions are temporary appointments as a research trainee. The initial appointment is for one year, renewal expected if progress is satisfactory and funds are available. Appointments cannot exceed five years.

Start date is flexible but we are hoping to fill the position ASAP. Interested candidates should apply online with a letter of interest and recent CV. For questions, contact Dr. Eri Saikawa at: eri.saikawa@emory.edu

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