A position is available in the Persistent Organic Pollutants research group of the University of Birmingham, UK led by Professor Stuart Harrad and Dr Mohamed Abdallah for 36 months to work on the project “Evaluating the role of the dermal pathway in driving human exposure to Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs)”. This position is funded by the European Union within the Marie Sklordowska-Curie Innovative Training Network PERFORCE3 doctoral training programme. Further information on PERFORCE3 and on all available ESR positions is available at www.perforce3-itn.eu In this project, in vitro human skin equivalent (HSE) models will be used to characterize the trans-dermal uptake of PFASs from both indoor dust and source materials such as PFAS-treated waterproof clothing and cosmetics and personal care products (e.g. lotions, sunblock, powders etc.). The successful applicant will also examine the role of dermal uptake in metabolising precursors to perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). 

 

The appointee will develop and apply appropriate analytical chemistry and in vitro HSE models to test the hypothesis that dermal sorption of PFASs is a significant pathway of human exposure. The applicant will validate the HSE models against human ex vivo skin. A substantial component of the project will involve the use of trace analytical chemistry techniques such as LC-MS/MS and GC-MS and previous experience of such techniques to study persistent organic chemicals would be an advantage. The position includes 2 secondments totalling 3 weeks duration to Chemours Inc. in the USA, and a further 2 secondments spanning 9 weeks duration to the Hochschule Fresenius, University of Applied Sciences in Germany to acquire additional research and training experiences.

 

To be eligible for the post, by the time of appointment, applicants must not have more than 4 years research experience since gaining a University degree which would entitle them to embark on doctoral studies either in the country the degree was received or in the UK. They must also have spent no more than 12 months out of the previous 36 months resident in the UK. 

 

The successful applicant will also be registered for a PhD. Applicants should complete an application form, provide an up-to-date CV and letter of motivation, together with the names of two scientific referees. Applications may be made here  The deadline for applications is April 1st 2020. The successful candidate must be able to start work on or before July 1st 2020

 

Salary will be GBP 51,574 per annum with additional allowances depending on eligibility. Interested candidates are encouraged to discuss the position before applying by contacting Professor Harrad S.J.Harrad@bham.ac.uk 

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