Ph.D. Opportunity: PFAS & Micro pollutant Removal in Water Systems

📍 Florida International University | Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering

Are you passionate about solving critical environmental challenges through innovative science and engineering? The Hooman Research Group at Florida International University (FIU) invites applications for a fully-funded Ph.D. position dedicated to developing next-generation technologies for the removal of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) and other refractory micropollutants from contaminated water sources.

This opportunity is ideal for motivated candidates who are eager to contribute to cutting-edge research in environmental water treatment and play a pivotal role in addressing one of the most urgent water quality issues facing communities around the globe.

🔬 Research Focus Areas

Ph.D. candidates will engage in a multidisciplinary research environment with a strong emphasis on:

• Advanced treatment technologies for water purification, including:

  • Sorption-based methods

  • High-pressure membrane filtration

  • Advanced Oxidation Processes (AOPs)

• Design and testing of experimental and pilot-scale water treatment systems

• Use of high-precision analytical instruments such as:

  • LC-MS (Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry)

  • TOC (Total Organic Carbon) analyzers.

    🎓 Ideal Candidate Profile

    To thrive in this role, the candidate should possess:

    • A Master’s degree in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or a closely related discipline

    • A solid foundation in chemistry, process engineering, and water treatment technologies

    • Hands-on experience with analytical instrumentation and lab operations

    • Demonstrated ability to design, conduct, and analyze experiments at both bench and pilot scales

    • Strong written and verbal communication skills, along with proficiency in data management and collaborative teamwork.

    📝 Key Responsibilities

    The selected Ph.D. student will:

    • Operate and maintain advanced analytical instruments

    • Design and execute experimental protocols and contribute to system optimization

    • Write and publish peer-reviewed papers, technical reports, and policy-relevant briefs

    • Mentor junior lab members and actively engage in research group activities and leadership>

      💡 How to Apply

      Interested applicants should prepare a single PDF document that includes:

      • A current Curriculum Vitae (CV)

      • Contact information for two academic/professional references

      • A one-page statement outlining your research vision and interests

      • (Optional) A copy of your Master’s thesis or published research papers

      📨 Submit your application via this Online Form

      📅 Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Early submission is encouraged.

      🌴 Why Choose FIU?

      Located in sunny Miami, Florida, Florida International University offers:

      • A vibrant, multicultural research environment

      • Access to state-of-the-art research facilities

      • Close collaboration with leading faculty and global partners

      • An ideal setting for addressing climate-resilient infrastructure and clean water solutions.

        💧Join us in tackling the world’s toughest water quality challenges—together.

        Apply today and make a difference with science that matters.