Postdoctoral researcher in aerosol emissions from streams

Department of Forest Ecology and Management

Scientific background

Atmospheric aerosols are microscopic particles that influence weather and climate, contribute to biogeochemical cycling, and facilitate the dispersal of organisms. Aquatic systems can release aerosols into the atmosphere through processes such as bubble bursting, which have been studied extensively in oceans. However, whether and how these processes operate in streams remains poorly understood.

Streams differ from oceans in their hydrodynamics and water chemistry, potentially affecting how particles are captured by bubbles and potentially transferred to the atmosphere. Recent observations suggest that streams contain ice-nucleating particles that could become airborne, raising the possibility that boreal streams represent an overlooked source of atmospheric aerosols. The magnitude of these emissions, the mechanisms driving them, and the environmental factors controlling them remain largely unknown

About the position

The postdoctoral researcher will investigate the hypothesis that streams emit aerosols to the atmosphere and identify the mechanisms and environmental conditions governing these emissions. A central task will be to develop a flux chamber to capture aerosols emitted from stream surfaces and quantify aerosol fluxes using online particle counters and air filtration for laboratory measurements of ice-nucleating particles. The chamber is planned to be deployed in both controlled experiments and field studies in natural boreal streams. The job also includes water sampling and measurements of physicochemical water and bubble properties.

The postdoctoral researcher will contribute to experimental design, data collection and analysis, manuscript preparation, scientific publication, and other forms of research communication. The position will be supervised by Associate Professor Marcus Klaus.

The successful candidate will be expected to work independently while collaborating closely with other members of the research team and external partners. The research environment will provide opportunities to develop scientific expertise, establish collaborations, and strengthen the candidate's professional development and academic career prospects.

Your profile

We are seeking a motivated and dedicated researcher with expertise at the interface of aquatic and atmospheric sciences and a strong interest in air–water exchange processes. Applicants must hold a PhD in atmospheric sciences, aquatic sciences, physics, environmental engineering, or a related discipline.

The applicant must have demonstrated experience in measurements of aerosols, suspended particles and/or air-water mass exchange (particles or gases) and experience conducting laboratory and/or fieldwork in aquatic and/or atmospheric systems. A track record of scientific writing and publishing in peer-reviewed journals is also required, as are excellent written and spoken English skills.