Watershed Biogeochemistry Fellowship

Watershed Biogeochemistry Fellowship

Watershed Biogeochemistry Fellowship Abundant water of suitable quality is needed to support energy operations and socio-economic needs. Water availability and suitability for these purposes depend on how water moves along diverse flow paths within the landscape and river network, chemical constituents mobilized from the surface and underground, and transformation by chemical and biological reactions that occur during transport. We seek to advance our understanding of the dominant hydro-biogeochemical processes that control the transport and transformation of water and chemical constituents within watersheds, with foci on groundwater-surface water interactions, in-stream hydro-biogeochemical processes, microbially-mediated transformations, water-rock weathering, and trace element dynamics. The fellow will engage in field- and laboratory-based research activities, data analysis and interpretation, and integration with complementary modeling efforts. They will interact with a multi-disciplinary team of empiricists, modelers, and technical professionals to gain perspective on how large-scale team science is conducted, the breadth of research conducted at ORNL and DOE, prospective career paths, and future opportunities. Associated project is DOE-funded through FY27 with renewal planned in FY28.

Minimum Requirements: 

Familiarity with basic principles of geochemistry and hydrology. - Introductory experience working in field and/or laboratory settings or analyzing and interpreting field and laboratory results.

Preferred Requirements: 

Research experience in field and laboratory settings, including water sample collection, use of in-stream sensors, and/or analytical instrumentation use. - Data analysis and interpretation experience, including statistical analyses, use of machine learning and AI tools, and/or use of R or similar coding languages.

Educational Requirements: 

BS degree in geoscience, environmental sciences, aquatic ecology, or a related field. - Graduate coursework in hydrology/hydrogeology, geochemistry, environmental chemistry, environmental engineering, or related topics.