This competition is open to all applicants however; internal candidates and applicants who were former employees of the University of Alberta will be given priority consideration before external candidates. Please log in to verify your internal candidate status.
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. Work primarily takes place at North Campus, Edmonton.
We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Scholar to advance research on in-duct ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI/GUV) technologies for mitigating airborne aerosol transmission in building ventilation systems. The position focuses on integrating computational and experimental approaches to precisely characterize UVGI performance under realistic HVAC operating conditions.
The scholar will play a leading role in developing next-generation engineering knowledge to support the design, optimization, and deployment of in-duct UVGI systems for healthy and resilient buildings.
The Faculty of Engineering 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.
The Postdoctoral Scholar will lead and support research activities, including:
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Develop high-fidelity CFD models to resolve duct airflow, turbulence, and particle transport.
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Conduct irradiance modelling using ray-tracing or radiation transport methods.
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Quantify UV dose delivery and disinfection performance under single-pass conditions.
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Support experimental validation in duct test rigs.
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Publish research in peer-reviewed journals and present at international conferences.
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Contribute to proposal development and interdisciplinary collaborations.
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Mentor graduate and undergraduate trainees in modelling and laboratory methods.
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PhD (completed or near completion) in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Building Science, or a closely related field.
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Strong background in Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD).
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Demonstrated experience in airflow modelling and particle transport simulation.
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Peer-reviewed publication record.
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Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications
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Experience in UVGI or airborne infection control technologies.
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Knowledge of radiative heat transfer or optical modelling.
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Familiarity with HVAC systems and ventilation engineering.
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Experience with multiphysics simulation platforms (e.g., ANSYS Fluent, OpenFOAM, COMSOL).
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Background in aerosol science or bioaerosol transport.
Application Instructions
Click “Apply Now” and submit the following documents:
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Resume
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Cover Letter
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List of Publications
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Research Plan
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Academic Referral Letters
This position has a comprehensive benefits package.
The terms and conditions of this appointment are governed by the Collective Agreement between the Board of Governors of the University of Alberta and the Postdoctoral Fellows Association of the University of Alberta.
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. Learn more.
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.
