The UCAM-SENS research unit is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to work on projects focused on the development and implementation of advanced monitoring technologies for water quality and water resource management.
The research focuses on developing innovative electrochemical sensing technologies and environmental monitoring systems to quantify water flow and nutrient pollution entering the Mar Menor lagoon. The project integrates chemical sensing, analytical chemistry, hydrological monitoring, and environmental modelling to improve understanding of how agricultural runoff and rainfall events affect water quality.
The developed sensors will enable real-time monitoring of nitrate concentrations in groundwater and surface waters. These systems will be deployed at monitoring points connected to the Mar Menor ecosystem, generating high-resolution environmental data to support scientific research and environmental management.
Key Responsibilities:
- Electrochemical Sensor Development
Design, fabricate, and optimize electrochemical sensors for nitrate detection using potentiometric techniques and other electrochemical approaches.
- Sensor Prototyping and Additive Manufacturing
Develop and characterize sensors fabricated using 3D printing and rapid prototyping technologies, and integrate them into environmental monitoring platforms.
- Water Sampling and Chemical Analysis
Collect and analyse water samples using established analytical techniques such as ion chromatography and potentiometric nitrate electrodes to validate sensor performance.
- Hydrological Monitoring and Field Deployment
Participate in the installation and testing of monitoring systems in field locations such as the Rambla del Albujón and Canal D7, including measurements of water flow using camera-based velocimetry techniques.
- Data Analysis and Environmental Modelling
Analyze sensor and monitoring data and contribute to their integration into hydrological models (SWAT+) to improve the understanding of water and nutrient dynamics in the basin.
- Environmental Impact Research
Investigate relationships between rainfall events, water flow, and nutrient concentrations affecting the Mar Menor ecosystem.
Requirements:
- PhD in Analytical Chemistry, Electrochemistry, Environmental Science, Chemical Engineering, Hydrology, or a related field.
- Experience in electrochemical sensing, chemical sensors, or environmental monitoring.
- Knowledge of analytical techniques for water quality analysis (e.g., ion chromatography, electrochemical sensors).
- Interest or experience in environmental modelling or hydrological systems.
- Ability to work in multidisciplinary research teams combining laboratory development and field work.
- Strong skills in data analysis and scientific communication
What we offer:
Position: Full-time Postdoctoral Researcher
Duration: 3-year extensible contract
Location: UCAM HiTech, Murcia, Spain
The successful candidate will join the UCAM-SENS research unit, a multidisciplinary research team working at the intersection of chemical sensing, environmental monitoring, and water resource management. The position offers access to advanced laboratory facilities and the opportunity to contribute to research addressing one of the most important environmental challenges in southeastern Spain: the protection of the Mar Menor coastal lagoon.
How to apply:
Submit your application via the UCAM recruitment system and also send your candidacy (CV and cover letter) to candidatos@ucam.edu, copying ucamsens@ucam.edu.
Ubicación del trabajo: Empleo presencial