Research Associate

We are seeking a full-time Research Assistant to support business modeling and commercialization strategy for a novel sensor technology designed to detect emerging contaminants in drinking water. The successful candidate will join a multi-campus, interdisciplinary team focused on developing and translating innovative sensing technologies for monitoring contaminants such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The role will involve market research, stakeholder engagement, economic feasibility assessments, and support for grant applications and business planning. This is an exciting opportunity for someone passionate about environmental innovation and public health to contribute to translating cutting-edge research into real-world impact.

• Conduct market research and competitive analysis on water quality monitoring technologies
• Assist with developing business models, value propositions, and go-to-market strategies
• Support techno-economic analysis and cost-benefit assessments
• Help prepare reports, presentations, and outreach materials for stakeholders and funders
• Coordinate with technical team members and academic, industry, and government partners
• Contribute to grant proposals and project documentation
• Other duties as assigned

• Bachelor’s degree (B.S. or equivalent) in Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Business, or a related field
• Strong analytical and communication skills
• Experience conducting literature reviews, data synthesis, or market analysis
• Interest in environmental technology, water quality, or sustainability. Additionally, preferred qualifications include;
• Coursework or experience in both technical and business disciplines (e.g., environmental economics, product development, engineering economics)
• Experience with startup ventures, innovation programs, or public health initiatives
• Familiarity with emerging contaminants (e.g., PFAS, pharmaceuticals, etc.)

The Research Foundation of The City University of New York (RFCUNY) is a nonprofit educational corporation founded in 1963 to provide post-award fiscal and administrative support for CUNY’s research and sponsored programs. RFCUNY’s services allow CUNY researchers, faculty, and staff to focus on their intellectual curiosity and scientific discoveries, on projects and programs that serve our local and global communities, proposing concrete solutions to society’s most pressing challenges.

RFCUNY serves as a fiscal agent and works closely with all the CUNY campus Grants Offices to perform the core functions of post-award financial management for CUNY research projects and sponsored programs. These functions include legal assessment and signing of agreements where RFCUNY is named as a fiscal agent; setting up award accounts; preparing sub-awards and assisting PIs in monitoring the work of the recipients of sub-awards; supporting project directors with hiring and managing research project and sponsored program staff; supporting the purchasing and paying for goods and services with grant and program funds; managing financial aspects of projects including accounts receivable, financial reporting, invoicing, budget monitoring, and cost compliance with uniform guidance; ensuring that sponsor financial requirements are met; monitoring compliance with applicable project and financial management rules and laws; supporting the management of independent and external audits and financial reviews; and providing data, information, management expertise, and other supports to CUNY’s research and sponsored programs.