Postdoc Research Associate - Nutrient Recovery and Water Reuse
Post Doc/Trainee
Summary of Duties and Responsibilities:
The Postdoctoral Researcher will work closely with BEI Research Scientists to conduct research on nutrient recovery and recycling from cattle feedlot lagoon water using biochar-, clay mineral-, and woodchip-based filtration systems. This work will focus on developing and evaluating sustainable nutrient recovery technologies that enhance nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium retention, reduce nutrient losses, and support circular agricultural systems.
The Postdoctoral Researcher will design and carry out laboratory, greenhouse, and column studies to investigate adsorption, desorption, nutrient cycling, and nutrient transport processes within engineered sorbent systems. Responsibilities include characterizing lagoon water and sorbent materials (e.g., biochar, clay minerals, woodchips, and nutrient-enriched media) using chemical and spectroscopic techniques, evaluating nutrient recovery and release efficiencies, and assessing impacts on soil health, water quality, and environmental sustainability.
This role also involves supporting the development and evaluation of proof-of-concept nutrient recovery systems for feedlot operations in collaboration with industry partners and stakeholders. The Postdoctoral Researcher is expected to work independently, contribute to interdisciplinary team efforts, mentor students as appropriate, and disseminate research findings through peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, stakeholder engagement, and sponsor reports.
Required Minimum Qualifications:
PhD in Environmental Science, Environmental Chemistry/Biology.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in thermochemical conversion of biomass
- Experience with biochar analysis and utilization for slow-release fertilizer development, including sorption processes and mechanisms in various media
- Experience with nutrient recovery from animal manure using biochar and other sorptive media
- Understanding of soil-plant interactions in response to biochar application
- Experience in water quality research and environmental remediation
Department/Program & College Description:
Iowa State University’s Biorenewables Research Laboratory building is a visible “front door” to its many diverse and broad-reaching programs in biorenewables. The 70,000 sq. ft. facility, completed in 2010, provides affiliated faculty and staff a physical environment that promotes interdisciplinary, systems-level research and collaboration, including laboratory, meeting and teaching space for both graduate and undergraduate students. Construction was made possible through an appropriation from the state of Iowa. The Biorenewables Research Laboratory comprises about one-third of the Biorenewables Complex, which is also home to the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering.
Department Unit/Website:
Biorenewable Research Laboratory | Bioeconomy Institute
Application Instructions:
To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:
Resume/Curriculum Vitae
Letter of Application/Cover Letter
Why Choose Iowa State University?
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:
- Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
- Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans
- Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
- Life insurance and long-term disability
- Flexible Spending Accounts
- Various voluntary benefits and discounts
- Employee Assistance Program
- Wellbeing program
- Iowa State offers WorkFlex options for some positions. WorkFlex offers flexibility on when, where, and how you do your work. For more information, please speak with the Hiring Manager.
If you have questions regarding this application process, please email [email protected], or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.
August 1, 2026
Full time
Post Docs
June 2, 2026
June 9, 2026
R19317
Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email [email protected] .
General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.
