Center for Environmental Research & Technology

Careers with CE-CERT

Thank you for your interest in joining the CE-CERT team! For general questions or to express interest in future employment, please email certinfo@cert.ucr.edu.

Engineering Positions

• Research Engineer - Emissions and Fuels Research Group

  Position overview

  Position titles:

  • Assistant Researcher

  • Associate or Full Researcher

  Salary range: $124,200-$272,000

  Anticipated start: September 1, 2025, or shortly thereafter.

  Review timeline: The first round of applications will be accepted through August 1, 2025, with additional rounds of review until the position is filled.

  Application Window

  Open date: June 16, 2025

  Most recent review date: Wednesday, Jul 16, 2025 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)
  Applications received after this date will be reviewed by the search committee if the position has not yet been filled.

  Final date: Wednesday, Dec 31, 2025 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)
  Applications will continue to be accepted until this date, but those received after the review date will only be considered if the position has not yet been filled.

  Position description

  The Center for Environmental Research & Technology (CE-CERT) at the Bourns College of Engineering, University of California, Riverside, is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Research Engineer to join our Emissions and Fuels Research Group. As a faculty Research Engineer, you will play a key role in conducting independent and collaborative research to study the emissions and activity of various mobile sources, including but not limited to light-duty vehicles, heavy-duty vehicles, engines, off-road equipment, marine vessels, locomotives, and other sources. Additionally, the candidate will be responsible for running and eventually managing the laboratories, communicating with customers and project sponsors, and managing testing and research projects. Additional responsibilities will include field testing work for mobile and off-road sources, as well as stationary sources. The candidate will work closely with the other EFR faculty members, technical staff, and students. The candidate will be responsible for planning, organizing, and executing testing and research programs

  The faculty Research Engineer position at the Center for Environmental Research & Technology offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in the field of emissions and fuels for various mobile sources. If you are a dedicated and innovative researcher with a passion for environmental sustainability and transportation, we encourage you to apply and be part of our dynamic team at the forefront of advancing clean and sustainable technologies.
  Qualifications will include a Ph.D. in mechanical, chemical, or environmental engineering, and having 2 or more years of research experience with a strong publication record.

  Additional qualifications include:
  • Advanced degree in Engineering, Environmental Sciences, or a related field with a focus on air quality, emissions testing, fuels, or sustainable transportation.
  • Proven experience in conducting independent research in the field of air quality and vehicle emissions from different sources.
  • Advanced knowledge associated with the fabrication of engineering systems, electronics, and engine components.
  • Strong background in experimental design, data analysis, and modeling techniques.
  • Proficiency in using relevant software and tools for data analysis and simulation.
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills, both written and verbal.
  • Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and independently.
  • Track record of successful grant writing and securing external research funding.

  A successful candidate will have a proven record of, or exceptional promise for, competence in the understanding of advanced combustion systems, emissions characterization, sensor development, alternative fuels, and powertrain technologies.

  To apply, candidates should submit a cover letter with a research statement, a curriculum vitae (CV), and three letters of reference or names of three references, depending on the level. Applications must be submitted through AP Recruit at https://aprecruit.ucr.edu/JPF02108. Full consideration will be given to applications received by August 1, 2025, and the position is open until filled. Selected applicants will be invited to interview via Zoom.

  Researcher salary ranges from $124,200 to $272,000 annually, depending on experience upon start. The posted UC salary scales set the minimum pay determined by experience level. See Represented Research Series Salary Scale, Table 14B - https://www.ucop.edu/academic-personnel-programs/_files/2025-26/represented-july-2025-scales/t14-b.pdf, (see: https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/resources/employment-policies-contracts/bargaining-units/academic-researchers/)

  Qualifications

  Basic qualifications (required at time of application)

  A Phd in Engineering, Environmental Sciences, or a related field with a focus on air quality, emissions testing, fuels, or sustainable transportation.

  Preferred qualifications

  The University of California, Riverside is a world-class research university with an exceptionally diverse undergraduate student body. UCR is a member institution of the American Association of Universities (AAU) as well as the Alliance of Hispanic Serving Research Universities (HSRU). A commitment to the UCR mission (https://apro.ucr.edu/mission-statement) is a preferred qualification.

  Application Requirements by Level

  Assistant Level

  Position title: Assistant Researcher

  Please complete the application and upload the required documents.

  Document requirements

  • Cover Letter - Please include a research statement in your cover letter.

  • Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.

  • Sample publications (Optional)

  Reference requirements

  • 3-5 letters of reference required

  Please provide three letters of recommendation.

  Apply link: https://aprecruit.ucr.edu/JPF02108

  Associate/Full Level

  Position title: Associate or Full Researcher

  Please complete the application and upload the required documents.

  Document requirements

  • Cover Letter - Please include a research statement in your cover letter.

  • Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.

  • Sample publications (Optional)

  Reference requirements

  • 3-5 required (contact information only)

  Please provide three references with contact information.

  Apply link: https://aprecruit.ucr.edu/JPF02108

  Help contact: sconnor@ucr.edu

   
• Associate or Full Project Scientist in CE-CERT (Part-time)

  Position overview

  Position title: Associate Project Scientist and Project Scientist

  Salary range: $117,600 - $221,200

  Anticipated start: February 1, 2026

  Review timeline: The first round of applications will be accepted through January 25, 2026, with additional rounds of review until the position is filled.

  Application Window

  Open date: January 2, 2026

  Most recent review date: Sunday, Jan 25, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)
  Applications received after this date will be reviewed by the search committee if the position has not yet been filled.

  Final date: Tuesday, Jun 30, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)
  Applications will continue to be accepted until this date, but those received after the review date will only be considered if the position has not yet been filled.

  Position description

  The Center for Environmental Research and Technology (CE-CERT) at the University of California, Riverside is seeking a part-time Project Scientist to support cutting-edge research in air quality and climate change. This position will contribute to the measurement, analysis, and interpretation of criteria air pollutants, air toxics, speciated metals, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and greenhouse gases collected through regional and community-scale monitoring efforts.

  The Project Scientist will play a key role in the implementation of air quality and community monitoring projects across the United States, working closely with CE-CERT researchers and collaborating with academic, governmental, non-governmental, and community partners. The position will also support education and training initiatives under CE-CERT’s Air Quality and Climate Training (ACT) Program, sponsored by the South Coast Air Quality Management District.

  Key Responsibilities
  The Project Scientist will conduct advanced air quality, air toxics, and greenhouse gas measurements and perform data analysis in support of air pollution, climate change, and exposure research. The role includes planning, coordinating, and deploying advanced air pollution measurement systems, including regulatory-grade analyzers and research-grade instrumentation such as Proton Transfer Reaction–Mass Spectrometry (PTR-MS). The Project Scientist will lead measurement and analysis activities using regulatory monitoring networks, mobile and stationary monitoring platforms, distributed sensor networks, and remote sensing tools. In addition, the appointee will develop and apply advanced analytical frameworks—including geospatial statistics, machine learning tools, air quality modeling, and source apportionment techniques—to interpret air pollution observations and assess regional, community-scale, and personal exposure. The Project Scientist will support CE-CERT researchers in the implementation of air quality and community monitoring projects across the U.S. and assist faculty in the development of air quality and climate-related coursework and education and training activities under the Air Quality and Climate Training (ACT) Program.

  Required Qualifications
  The successful candidate must hold a Ph.D. in environmental engineering, environmental sciences, or a closely related discipline, with a minimum of five years of postdoctoral or equivalent research experience and a demonstrated record of scholarly publications. The candidate must possess extensive knowledge of air pollution, emissions, and exposure science, along with significant experience operating advanced air quality and emissions measurement instrumentation and systems (e.g., PTR-MS, GC-MS). Strong expertise in advanced statistical, numerical, and spatial data analysis for large-scale datasets is required, as well as experience conducting rigorous, applied research. A broad understanding of air pollution control and mitigation strategies is also essential.

  Preferred Qualifications
  Preferred candidates will demonstrate the ability to synthesize research findings for technical publications and present results to a wide range of audiences. Strong written and oral communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary research environment are highly desirable. Prior experience working with research, regulatory, and community stakeholders, as well as comfort collaborating with diverse partners, is also preferred.

  To apply, candidates should submit a cover letter, a research statement, a curriculum vitae (CV), and three letters of reference. Applications must be submitted through AP Recruit at https://aprecruit.ucr.edu/JPF02206. Full consideration will be given to applications received by January 25, 2026; however, the position will remain open until filled. Selected applicants will be invited to interview via Zoom. The anticipated start date is February 1, 2026, and the appointment is expected to be for two years, contingent upon the availability of funding. Salary is commensurate with education and experience.

  The full salary for a Project Scientist ranges from $117,600 - $221,200 annually, depending on experience upon start. The posted UC salary scales set the minimum pay determined by experience level. See Represented Project Scientist Salary Scale, Table 38-B - https://www.ucop.edu/academic-personnel-programs/_files/2025-26/represented-july-2025-scales/t38-b.pdf, (see: https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/resources/employment-policies-contracts/bargaining-units/academic-researchers/contract/)

  Advancement through the faculty and non-senate academic ranks at the University of California is through a series of structured, merit-based evaluations, occurring every 2-3 years, each of which includes substantial peer input.

  Qualifications

  Basic qualifications (required at time of application)

  The successful candidate must hold a Ph.D. in environmental engineering, environmental sciences, or a closely related discipline, with a minimum of five years of postdoctoral or equivalent research experience and a demonstrated record of scholarly publications.

  Preferred qualifications

  Preferred candidates will demonstrate the ability to synthesize research findings for technical publications and present results to a wide range of audiences.

  Strong written and oral communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary research environment are highly desirable.

  Prior experience working with research, regulatory, and community stakeholders, as well as comfort collaborating with diverse partners, is also preferred.

  The University of California, Riverside is a world-class research university with an exceptionally diverse undergraduate student body. UCR is a member institution of the American Association of Universities (AAU) and the Alliance of Hispanic Serving Research Universities (HSRU). A commitment to the UCR mission (https://apro.ucr.edu/mission-statement) is a preferred qualification.

  Application Requirements

  Document requirements

  • Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.

  • Cover Letter - Please include a research statement in your cover letter.

  Reference requirements

  • 3-5 required (contact information only)

  Please provide contact information for three references.

  Apply link: https://aprecruit.ucr.edu/JPF02206

  Help contact: sconnor@ucr.edu

  About UC Riverside

  The University of California, Riverside is a world-class research university with an exceptionally diverse undergraduate student body. UCR is a member institution of the American Association of Universities (AAU) and the Alliance of Hispanic Serving Research Universities (HSRU). A commitment to the UCR mission (https://apro.ucr.edu/mission-statement) is a preferred qualification.

  We seek to hire scholars who will both advance our research directions and effectively educate our undergraduate and graduate students, while also engaging with University and Professional service activities. Research and teaching statements that are included with application materials are opportunities for candidates to share knowledge, experience, and goals that support the mission of UCR. For more information on UC’s criteria for successful faculty, refer to the Academic Personnel Manual (APM) 210 - Criteria for Appointment, Promotion, and Appraisal (https://www.ucop.edu/academic-personnel-programs/_files/apm/apm-210.pdf).

  The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories under state or federal law. It is the policy of the University of California to undertake affirmative action and anti-discrimination efforts, consistent with its obligations as a Federal and State contractor.

  As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, State, or local government directives may impose additional requirements.

  As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct.

  “Misconduct” means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant’s previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment or discrimination, as defined by the employer. A Misconduct Disclosure Survey will be completed through Truescreen, which is the vendor that administers this process for the campus.

  For the University of California's Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy please visit:
  https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/4000385/SVSH.

  For the University of California’s Anti-Discrimination Policy for Employees, Students, and Third Parties, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination.

  For the University of California’s Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment Policy, please visit: https://www.ucop.edu/academic-personnel-programs/_files/apm/apm-035.pdf.

  Job location

  Riverside, CA
• Jr. Specialist

  Position overview

  Position title: Jr. Specialist

  Salary range: $55,000

  Anticipated start: March 20, 2026

  Review timeline: We plan to begin reviewing applications on the initial review date. Our intention is to select a candidate from the initial applicant pool and, ideally, secure a mid- to late-March start date in order to align with research timelines.

  Application Window

  Open date: March 2, 2026

  Next review date: Wednesday, Mar 18, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)
  Apply by this date to ensure full consideration by the committee.

  Final date: Tuesday, Jun 30, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)
  Applications will continue to be accepted until this date, but those received after the review date will only be considered if the position has not yet been filled.

  Position description

  The Center for Environmental Research and Technology (CE-CERT) at the University of California, Riverside seeks a Junior Specialist for the Emissions and Fuels Research (EFR) Group. Under the supervision of the Laboratory Manager and Principal Investigator, the Junior Specialist provides research support for laboratory testing operations associated with sponsored research, Sales and Service activities, and related emissions studies.

  The Junior Specialist assists with laboratory equipment setup, emissions measurements, and standard testing procedures. Responsibilities include supporting calibration of laboratory instrumentation, conducting routine emissions tests, and preparing particulate matter and quartz filters in accordance with established laboratory protocols. The position also supports research documentation, including assistance with proposal preparation, project records, technical reports, and presentations.

  The Junior Specialist is expected to work both independently and collaboratively in a laboratory environment, follow established safety and quality control procedures, and perform additional duties as assigned within the scope of the Specialist title series and rank.

  Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent degree) in a relevant field or equivalent research experience.
  • Demonstrated ability to perform research support activities in a laboratory or technical environment, including following established protocols and procedures.
  • Ability to assist with laboratory testing operations, data collection, and routine technical tasks in support of research activities.
  • Basic knowledge of laboratory safety practices and the ability to work safely with equipment, materials, and instrumentation.
  • Ability to maintain accurate records and documentation related to research activities.
  • Effective communication skills and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a research team.
  • Ability to follow direction from the Laboratory Manager and Principal Investigator and carry out assigned duties within the scope of the Junior Specialist title series.

  Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience working in a laboratory environment, preferably supporting emissions testing, fuels research, or environmental measurement activities.
  • Familiarity with emissions sampling methods, particulate matter handling, and preparation of quartz or particulate matter filters.
  • Experience assisting with the calibration, operation, or routine maintenance of laboratory instrumentation and testing equipment.
  • Knowledge of standard laboratory safety procedures, quality control practices, and documentation requirements.
  • Ability to maintain accurate records and contribute to technical documentation, reports, and presentations.
  • Experience supporting research projects, contracts, or sales and service laboratory activities.
  • Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple tasks while meeting project timelines.

  To apply, candidates should submit a curriculum vitae (CV). Applications must be submitted through AP Recruit. Full consideration will be given to applications received by March 18, 2026; however, the position will remain open until filled. Selected applicants will be invited to interview via Zoom. The anticipated start date is March 20, 2026 or shortly thereafter, and the appointment is for one year, with a possibility of a second year, contingent upon the availability of funding.

  The salary for a Jr. Specialist, Step 1 is $55,000 annually. The posted UC salary scales set the minimum pay determined by experience level. See Represented Jr. Specialist Salary Scale, Table 24-B. For additional information, See UCNet RA Union Contract

  Qualifications

  Basic qualifications (required at time of application)

  • Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent degree) in a relevant field or equivalent research experience.
  • Demonstrated ability to perform research support activities in a laboratory or technical environment, including following established protocols and procedures.
  • Ability to assist with laboratory testing operations, data collection, and routine technical tasks in support of research activities.
  • Basic knowledge of laboratory safety practices and the ability to work safely with equipment, materials, and instrumentation.
  • Ability to maintain accurate records and documentation related to research activities.
  • Effective communication skills and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a research team.
  • Ability to follow directions from the Laboratory Manager and Principal Investigator and carry out assigned duties within the scope of the Junior Specialist title series.

  Preferred qualifications

  • Experience working in a laboratory environment, preferably supporting emissions testing, fuels research, or environmental measurement activities.
  • Familiarity with emissions sampling methods, particulate matter handling, and preparation of quartz or particulate matter filters.
  • Experience assisting with the calibration, operation, or routine maintenance of laboratory instrumentation and testing equipment.
  • Knowledge of standard laboratory safety procedures, quality control practices, and documentation requirements.
  • Ability to maintain accurate records and contribute to technical documentation, reports, and presentations.
  • Experience supporting research projects, contracts, or sales and service laboratory activities.
  • Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple tasks while meeting project timelines.
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively within a research team.
  • The University of California, Riverside is a world-class research university with an exceptionally diverse undergraduate student body. UCR is a member institution of the American Association of Universities (AAU) and the Alliance of Hispanic Serving Research Universities (HSRU). A commitment to the UCR mission is a preferred qualification.

  Application Requirements

  Document requirements

  • Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.

  Reference requirements

  References are not required

  Apply link: https://aprecruit.ucr.edu/JPF02222

  Help contact: sconnor@ucr.edu

  About UC Riverside

  The University of California, Riverside is a world-class research university with an exceptionally diverse undergraduate student body. UCR is a member institution of the American Association of Universities (AAU) and the Alliance of Hispanic Serving Research Universities (HSRU). A commitment to the UCR mission (https://apro.ucr.edu/mission-statement) is a preferred qualification.

  We seek to hire scholars who will both advance our research directions and effectively educate our undergraduate and graduate students, while also engaging with University and Professional service activities. Research and teaching statements that are included with application materials are opportunities for candidates to share knowledge, experience, and goals that support the mission of UCR. For more information on UC’s criteria for successful faculty, refer to the Academic Personnel Manual (APM) 210 - Criteria for Appointment, Promotion, and Appraisal (https://www.ucop.edu/academic-personnel-programs/_files/apm/apm-210.pdf).

  The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories under state or federal law. It is the policy of the University of California to undertake affirmative action and anti-discrimination efforts, consistent with its obligations as a Federal and State contractor.

  As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, State, or local government directives may impose additional requirements.

  As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct.

  “Misconduct” means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant’s previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment or discrimination, as defined by the employer. A Misconduct Disclosure Survey will be completed through Truescreen, which is the vendor that administers this process for the campus.

  For the University of California's Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy please visit:
  https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/4000385/SVSH.

  For the University of California’s Anti-Discrimination Policy for Employees, Students, and Third Parties, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination.

  For the University of California’s Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment Policy, please visit: https://www.ucop.edu/academic-personnel-programs/_files/apm/apm-035.pdf.

  Job location

  Riverside, CA