Research Fellow in Air Pollution Exposure and Public Health (Chemistry)

Role Description

A research position is available to support research to enhance observations of human exposure to air pollution and other pollutants using sensor-based approaches. Air pollution is the largest environmental factor globally that causes ill health, little is known about individual exposures either indoors or outdoors. Developing advanced approaches to measuring indoor and outdoor exposure is a priority area of research for the UK government. This position will support a range of human air quality observational studies that are planned by a range of funders including EU, NIHR and MRC. The successful applicant will have a proven track record in sensor-based measurements and data techniques and of collaboration with epidemiology and health researchers. These experiences will have been applied to mobile, personal exposure and indoor air quality studies. The applicant will be expected to undertake research independently, and to develop a strategy to support longer term engagement with health funders, and improve linkages between atmospheric chemistry and public health research. The position is part-time and will require close interaction with parallel research activities at the University of Cambridge, including some travel between institutions. 

Department

The University of York’s Wolfson Atmospheric Chemistry Laboratories (WACL) wish to recruit a Research Fellow to lead the advancement of knowledge of human exposure to air pollution. You will lead on sensor-based sampling and their deployment in both indoor and outdoor settings, in support of a range of field-based studies being undertaken in collaboration with other universities. You will provide leadership of the development of strategies to increase sensor-based measurements and interdisciplinary research intersecting with indoor spaces and public health, including the development of applications to funders.  

WACL is the largest dedicated atmospheric chemistry facility in the UK, home to more than 80 researchers. WACL supports an exceptional research environment, providing access to state-of-the-art facilities and a wide range of interdisciplinary expertise.  

Role

• Deploy sensor-based devices in relevant locations, generating data capable of constraining our understanding of human exposure to pollution in indoor and outdoor settings.

• Lead on the use of sensor-based approaches to exposure in WACL in combination with development of advanced data techniques

• Challenge and improve representations of air pollution used in chemical models and assess impacts on public health

• Participate in planning and management of research projects, including supervising the work of others, providing expert advice and guidance.

Skills, Experience & Qualification needed

• A first degree in physical / engineering /architecture and a PhD in pollution and/health 
• Experience in sensors for personal exposure and in-home measurements
•  Experience of leading sensor deployment projects indoors and outdoors
• Knowledge of a range of atmospheric data tools and methodologies
• Experience of leading the production of research outputs 
• Ability to develop research objectives, projects and proposals for own and joint research
• Highly motivated and professional work ethic, with commitment to high quality research, a collaborative ethos and a willingness to proactively support colleagues and students

Interview date: To be confirmed

For informal enquiries: Prof. Alastair Lewis on ally.lewis@york.ac.uk

The University strives to be diverse and inclusive  – a place where we can ALL be ourselves.

We particularly encourage applications from people who identify as Black, Asian or from a Minority Ethnic background, who are underrepresented at the University. 

We offer family friendly, flexible working arrangements, with forums and inclusive facilities to support our staff. #EqualityatYork