"Associate or Full Project Scientist in CE-CERT (Part-time)"

The Center for Environmental Research and Technology (CE-CERT) at the University of California, Riverside is seeking a part-time Project Scientist to support cutting-edge research in air quality and climate change. This position will contribute to the measurement, analysis, and interpretation of criteria air pollutants, air toxics, speciated metals, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and greenhouse gases collected through regional and community-scale monitoring efforts.

The Project Scientist will play a key role in the implementation of air quality and community monitoring projects across the United States, working closely with CE-CERT researchers and collaborating with academic, governmental, non-governmental, and community partners. The position will also support education and training initiatives under CE-CERT's Air Quality and Climate Training (ACT) Program, sponsored by the South Coast Air Quality Management District.

Key Responsibilities

The Project Scientist will conduct advanced air quality, air toxics, and greenhouse gas measurements and perform data analysis in support of air pollution, climate change, and exposure research. The role includes planning, coordinating, and deploying advanced air pollution measurement systems, including regulatory-grade analyzers and research-grade instrumentation such as Proton Transfer Reaction-Mass Spectrometry (PTR-MS). The Project Scientist will lead measurement and analysis activities using regulatory monitoring networks, mobile and stationary monitoring platforms, distributed sensor networks, and remote sensing tools. In addition, the appointee will develop and apply advanced analytical frameworks--including geospatial statistics, machine learning tools, air quality modeling, and source apportionment techniques--to interpret air pollution observations and assess regional, community-scale, and personal exposure. The Project Scientist will support CE-CERT researchers in the implementation of air quality and community monitoring projects across the U.S. and assist faculty in the development of air quality and climate-related coursework and education and training activities under the Air Quality and Climate Training (ACT) Program.

Required Qualifications

The successful candidate must hold a Ph.D. in environmental engineering, environmental sciences, or a closely related discipline, with a minimum of five years of postdoctoral or equivalent research experience and a demonstrated record of scholarly publications. The candidate must possess extensive knowledge of air pollution, emissions, and exposure science, along with significant experience operating advanced air quality and emissions measurement instrumentation and systems (e.g., PTR-MS, GC-MS). Strong expertise in advanced statistical, numerical, and spatial data analysis for large-scale datasets is required, as well as experience conducting rigorous, applied research. A broad understanding of air pollution control and mitigation strategies is also essential.

Preferred Qualifications

Preferred candidates will demonstrate the ability to synthesize research findings for technical publications and present results to a wide range of audiences. Strong written and oral communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary research environment are highly desirable. Prior experience working with research, regulatory, and community stakeholders, as well as comfort collaborating with diverse partners, is also preferred.

To apply, candidates should submit a cover letter, a research statement, a curriculum vitae (CV), and three letters of reference. Applications must be submitted through AP Recruit at https://aprecruit.ucr.edu/JPF02206. Full consideration will be given to applications received by January 25, 2026; however, the position will remain open until filled. Selected applicants will be invited to interview via Zoom. The anticipated start date is February 1, 2026, and the appointment is expected to be for two years, contingent upon the availability of funding. Salary is commensurate with education and experience.

The full salary for a Project Scientist ranges from $117,600 - $221,200 annually, depending on experience upon start. The posted UC salary scales set the minimum pay determined by experience level. See Represented Project Scientist Salary Scale, Table 38-B - https://www.ucop.edu/academic-personnel-programs/_files/2025-26/represented-july-2025-scales/t38-b.pdf.