PhD dissertation project: Nitro- and oxyaromatic compounds in the Atmospheric Environment

Max-Planck-Institut für Chemie (Otto-Hahn-Institut) der Max-Planck-Gesellschaft zur Förderung der Wissenschaften e. V.

PhD dissertation project: Nitro- and oxyaromatic compounds in the Atmospheric Environment

Tentative title of the thesis:

Investigation of occurrence, cycling and bioavailability of nitro- and oxyaromatic compounds in ambient aerosols

Nitro- and, less so, oxyaromatic compounds are probably the most toxic constituents of ambient air and the most hazardous environmental chemicals for public health in Europe, but their levels, fate in the environment and bioavailability are largely unknown. We aim to improve the knowledge about occurrence of these substances in the atmosphere and the predictability of fate, distribution and human exposure by means of sampling, chemical analysis and laboratory studies.

The PhD candidate will be tasked with the adaptation and application of chromatographic methods for analysis of atmospheric (particulate matter, gas-phase, precipitation samples) and soil matrices, as well as simulated lung fluids. This requires thorough knowledge of gas and liquid chromatography, sample preparation techniques, and mass spectrometry-based detection techniques. Samples will be obtained at various types of field sites. The project work is part of our research on multiphase chemistry relevant for Earth system science and climate research as well as for life and health sciences and is pursued in international cooperations.

The project will be integrated into the Max Planck Graduate School (MPGS). The doctoral thesis may be written in English or German. Further information on the Graduate school can be found here: http://www.mpic.de/en/career/mpgs-max-planck-graduate-school.html.

Requirements: Enthusiasm for research, ability to work independently, a degree (M.Sc. or equivalent) in chemistry or a related discipline with a score clearly above average at a school located in the E.U., or at an equivalent institution, strong background in Analytical Chemistry, and fluency in English. Practical experience in gas and liquid chromatography as well as sample preparation methods would be highly advantageous.

The Max Planck Society wishes to increase the number of female coworkers, and applications by women are particularly encouraged. The Max Planck Society has set itself the objective of employing more persons with disabilities. Applications from persons with disabilities are expressly encouraged.

Applications, which should include a cover letter, CV (EU standard), copies of academic certificates, and two addresses of individuals who can comment on the applicant’s qualification, can be submitted any time, preferentially before May 31, 2017, to Prof. Dr. Gerhard Lammel ([Email Address Removed], phone +49-6131-3057601).