We have positions available for both graduate and undergraduate students. If you are interested, please inquire at (bertram@chem.ubc.ca).
Undergraduate Research:
UBC Work Learn & Work Learn International Undergraduate Research Award (WLIURA):UBC Vancouver students the opportunity to develop their professional skills in a work environment. Positions are available for the Winter and Summer Sessions.
For more information about the programs, eligibility, and restrictions, refer to the Work Learn and WLIURA websites.
Available undergraduate research positions can be found at: UBC CareersOnline
International Researchers:
Visiting International Research Student (VIRS): VIRS is the approved program for international students who want to engage in full-time research at UBC under the supervision of UBC faculty member, without taking courses at UBC. The VIRS program is open to both undergraduate and graduate students, with ongoing admission and no application deadline.
For more information about the program, eligibility, and restrictions, refer to the Visiting International Research Student (VIRS) website.
Postdoctoral Fellows:
Postdoctoral Opportunity in Aerosol–Stratosphere Interactions at UBC
The Bertram Group at the University of British Columbia (UBC) invites applications for a postdoctoral research associate to join the SOLACE (Sustainable Organic and Inorganic Laboratory Aerosols for Climate Engineering) project.
This position is part of Work Package 1, which aims to assess whether solid inorganic aerosols proposed for stratospheric aerosol injection (SAI) can unintentionally nucleate polar stratospheric clouds (PSCs)—a critical question in evaluating the risks of solar radiation management strategies.
Research Scope
The postdoc will lead experimental work in one or more of the following areas:
- Aerosol generation and characterization: Producing and analyzing solid inorganic aerosols (e.g., calcite, alumina, TiO₂, SiC, ZrO₂).
- Simulating atmospheric aging: Using oxidation flow reactors and environmental chambers to expose aerosols to OH, O₃, and H₂SO₄, mimicking stratospheric processing. Coating thickness and composition will be quantified using a scanning mobility particle sizer and aerosol mass spectrometry.
- Quantifying PSC nucleation: Employing cold-stage microscopy and a custom-built low-temperature, low-pressure flow cell coupled with infrared and optical microscopy to examine PSC formation pathways under polar stratospheric conditions.
Candidate Profile
We are looking for a researcher with:
- A PhD in atmospheric chemistry, physical chemistry, environmental engineering, or a closely related field
- Hands-on experience in aerosol science, environmental chambers, microscopy, or related instrumentation
- Strong data analysis and scientific communication skills
- Interest in working at the intersection of climate science and experimental physical/analytical chemistry
Why Join Us?
- Work in a well-equipped lab at UBC with state-of-the-art facilities for aerosol generation, analysis, and cloud simulation
- Collaborate closely with leading researchers in chemistry and climate science
- Contribute to a globally important effort in evaluating the safety and feasibility of climate intervention strategies
How to Apply
Please send the following materials to bertram@chem.ubc.ca:
- Cover letter (including a description of research interests and career goals)
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Contact information for two references
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. The position is available immediately and will remain open until filled.
Equity and diversity are essential to academic excellence. An open and diverse community fosters the inclusion of voices that have been underrepresented or discouraged. We encourage applications from members of groups that have been marginalized on any grounds enumerated under the B.C. Human Rights Code, including sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, racialization, disability, political belief, religion, marital or family status, age, and/or status as a First Nation, Métis, Inuit, or Indigenous person. We welcome colleagues with the experiences and competencies that can contribute to our principles of inclusion, equity, and diversity throughout campus life.
Additional Details
Employer: University of British Columbia
Location: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Job Type: Postdoctoral Fellow
