Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Sustainable Water Infrastructure - American University of Sharjah

Job Description

Post: Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Sustainable Water Infrastructure

Position Summary

To lead interdisciplinary research in sustainable water infrastructure systems, with a focus on emerging pollutants, smart monitoring, climate resilience, and water-energy co-optimization. The postdoctoral fellow will evaluate pollution in water supply and distribution networks, design treatment and brine management strategies, and develop data-driven models for sustainable infrastructure and water security in Sharjah and across the UAE.

• Evaluate the presence of emerging contaminants (e.g., microplastics, pharmaceuticals) in water, wastewater, and stormwater systems.
• Study the role of infrastructure materials in mobilizing micropollutants, especially in desalination plants and distribution networks.
• Assess and improve treatment and pretreatment technologies, including chemical oxidation and sustainable brine management.
• Investigate smart leak detection, pipe degradation, and distribution system resilience.
• Model climate change impacts on water infrastructure and propose adaptation strategies.
• Develop AI/ML-based monitoring systems and IoT integration for infrastructure management.
• Analyze the co-optimization of water and energy distribution systems.
• Publish research outcomes in leading peer-reviewed journals.
• Contribute to writing technical reports and grant deliverables.
• Mentor and collaborate with graduate students and junior researchers.
• Participate in project meetings and communicate findings to stakeholders.
• Participate in organizing conferences and workshops.

• PhD in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related fields.
• Research experience in contaminant assessment, water treatment, and infrastructure systems.
• Proficiency with lab instruments (GC-MS, ICP-MS, SEM, XRD, AFM, BET, etc.) and simulation/modeling tools.
• Demonstrated publication record in high-impact journals and conference proceedings.
• Expertise in emerging pollutants and water distribution systems.
• Strong technical skills in modeling, simulation, and analytical instrumentation.
• Ability to work across interdisciplinary teams and support graduate student mentorship.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.

• Interdisciplinary background in smart infrastructure systems, environmental modeling, or the water-energy nexus.
• Experience in climate resilience modeling, smart city infrastructure, or brine treatment design.
• Application of AI and machine learning in water system management.

• Interested applicants should fill out this form.
• AUS alumni are encouraged to apply. Applicants who do not meet specified requirements will not be shortlisted. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• AUS is an equal opportunity employer. We adhere to a policy of making employment decisions without regard to race, color, age, gender, religion, national origin, disability or marital status. Opportunities for employment are based solely upon ones qualifications.