Postdoctoral Scholar - Engineering Strategies Against Wildfires

University of Alberta View all jobs

  • Edmonton, AB
  • Permanent
  • Full-time
  • 2 months ago
Job Category: Research & Research SupportJob Description:This position has an initial appointment of one year, with a possible one-year extension contingent on satisfactory performance and funding approval.Location - This role is in-person at North Campus, Edmonton.Position SummaryWe are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Scholar (PDS) to join an interdisciplinary research program investigating the impacts of climate change-driven wildfires on indoor environmental quality and occupant health, and the role of engineering mitigation strategies in protecting buildings over the coming decades.The project integrates building science, wildfire smoke exposure, ventilation engineering, air cleaning technologies, and machine learning-based climate prediction. The scholar will contribute to developing predictive frameworks that link future climate conditions to wildfire probability, smoke infiltration, indoor pollutant dynamics, and the performance requirements of next-generation filtration and air purification systems.Consistent with comparable postdoctoral roles, the scholar's time will be distributed across research execution, publication and proposal development, mentorship of trainees, and collaborative project delivery.Responsibilities:The Postdoctoral Scholar will lead and support research activities including:
  • Developing predictive models linking climate change variables (temperature, humidity, drought indicators) to wildfire occurrence probability and severity.
  • Applying machine learning techniques to forecast future environmental conditions relevant to wildfire risk and smoke transport.
  • Modeling indoor smoke infiltration, exposure, and time-dependent pollutant dynamics under future climate scenarios.
  • Evaluating the performance of engineering mitigation strategies, including:
  • Advanced filtration systems,
  • Ventilation operation strategies,
  • In-duct and room portable air cleaning technologies.
  • Identifying design requirements for next-generation building protection systems under projected wildfire intensification.
  • Publishing research findings in high-impact journals and presenting at international conferences.
  • Contributing to proposal development and interdisciplinary collaborations.
  • Mentoring graduate and undergraduate trainees on technical and modeling tasks.
Qualifications:Minimum Qualifications
  • PhD (completed within the last 5 years or near completion) in Mechanical Engineering, Civil/Building Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Atmospheric Science, Computer Engineering, or a closely related field.
  • Demonstrated research experience in indoor air quality, wildfire smoke, HVAC systems, or environmental modeling.
  • Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills in English.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience applying machine learning or AI methods to environmental or climate datasets.
  • Background in wildfire smoke modeling, exposure assessment, or climate risk analysis.
  • Familiarity with building ventilation, filtration, or air cleaning technologies.
  • Experience integrating experimental, modeling, and data-driven research approaches.
Application InstructionsClick "Apply Now" to submit the following:
  • Resume
  • Cover Letter
  • List of Publications
  • Research Plan
  • Academic Referral Letters
Preference will be given to complete applications received by March 15, 2026; however, we will continue to accept applications beyond that date until the closing date.This position has a .The terms and conditions of this appointment are governed by the between the Board of Governors of the University of Alberta and the Postdoctoral Scholar's Association of the University of Alberta.About Us:The University of Alberta acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages and cultures of First Nations, Métis, Inuit and all FirstPeoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community.The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to over 14,000 faculty and staff, more than 40,000 students and a growing community of 300,000 alumni worldwide.Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people - from our students and community members, to our renowned researchers and innovators, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger and more just. .At the University of Alberta, we are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates. If you require accommodations to participate in the interview process, please let us know at the time of booking your interview and we will make every effort to accommodate your needs.We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.All University employees have a responsibility to foster a workplace that prioritizes safety in all its forms-physical, cultural, and psychological. This is achieved by promoting a safe environment, adhering to all safety laws, policies and procedures, completing all required safety training, identifying hazards and implementing controls, reporting incidents, and contributing to a culture of belonging and respect, while endeavoring to ensure that all colleagues feel valued and safe to express their thoughts, perspectives and concerns.The University of Alberta is committed to creating a university community where everyone feels valued, barriers to success are removed, and thriving connections are fostered. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage women, First Nations, Métis and Inuit persons, members of visible minority groups, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression, and all those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas and the University to apply.L'Université de l'Alberta s'engage à créer une communauté universitaire où chaque personne se sent valorisée, où les obstacles à la réussite sont éliminés et où des connexions enrichissantes peuvent se développer. Nous accueillons les demandes de toutes les personnes qualifiées. Nous encourageons les femmes; Premières nations, Métis et Inuits; membres des groupes minoritaires visibles; personnes handicapées; personnes de toute orientation sexuelle ou identité et expression de genre; et toutes les personnes qui peuvent contribuer à la diversification des idées et à l'université à postuler.About the Team: The is one of North America's top engineering schools, known for innovation, collaboration, and impact. It fosters an exceptional student experience through a holistic approach that combines technical excellence with emotional intelligence. With strong community engagement, interdisciplinary research, and a commitment to societal well-being, the faculty prepares students to lead in a rapidly evolving, global engineering landscape.

University of Alberta