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Postdoctoral Fellow in Bioinspired Materials for VOC Indoor Air Quality Assessment

Harvard University

Harvard University

Quality Assurance
USD 67,600-91,826 / year
Posted on Apr 4, 2026

Position

Details
Title Postdoctoral Fellow in Bioinspired Materials for VOC Indoor Air Quality Assessment
School Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences
Department/Area Material Science & Mechanical Engineering
Position Description
The Aizenberg Lab at Harvard University is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to join a multidisciplinary team to lead a field-based study characterizing volatile organic compound (VOC) exposure across diverse real-world indoor environments. This role offers the opportunity to conduct mobile sensor measurements, analyze air quality data, and generate insights to support the commercialization of novel VOC detection technology.

Key Responsibilities:
· Conduct mobile field measurements using air sensors across commercial, residential, transportation, and occupational settings
· Collect and synthesize environmental data, contextual observations, and metadata
· Perform statistical and qualitative analysis to identify VOC exposure patterns and chemical signatures
· Generate findings to inform product-market fit, sensor design, and deployment strategy
· Prepare results into a manuscript for peer-reviewed journal
· Communicate project progress and coordinate with research team

Duration:
· 3 ½ months

Preferred start date as soon as possible but flexible.

Basic Qualifications
· PhD or equivalent in engineering, building science or related field
Additional Qualifications
· Strong data analysis and statistical skills
· Excellent written communication
· Ability to work independently and manage project timelines
· Field research experience
· Knowledge of building systems
· Degree in computer science
Special Instructions
Applicants should include a full CV, cover letter summarizing your experience, list of reference contacts (minimum of 3), and up to 3 publications.

Contact Information
Marina McLaughlin
Contact Email mclaughl@g.harvard.edu
Salary Range
$67,600 – $91,826. Pay offered to the selected candidate is dependent on factors such as rank, years of experience, training or qualification, field of scholarship, and accomplishments in the field.


Minimum Number of References Required 3
Maximum Number of References Allowed 5
Keywords

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard’s academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university’s non-discrimination policy. Harvard’s equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

Applicant Documents

Required Documents
  1. Curriculum Vitae
  2. Cover Letter
  3. Publication
  4. Publication 2
  5. Publication 3
Optional Documents
  1. Statement of Research