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Welcome to Chu Biotechnology Lab
Our lab is in the Zachry Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at at Texas A&M University.
Our research interests are in enhancing our understanding of microbial-mediated processes in natural and engineered systems, and in developing novel biotechnologies to address various environmental problems and sustainable issues in water, soils, food, and energy.
The Chu lab uses applied microbiology, molecular biology, synthetic biology, isotopic techniques, chemical analysis, and phage biology to study environmental biological systems, with particular focus on (i) biodegradation and treatment of environmental pollutants such as emerging contaminants (PFAS, PPCPs, endocrine disruptors, antibiotics, plastics, munitions) and persistent organic pollutants (POPs), (ii) production of bioenergy and bioproducts from renewable resources and/or organic wastes, and (iii) detecting, tracking, and quantifying microorganisms that are important to water quality, bioremediation, phytoremediation, carbon sequestration and precious metals recovery. Other areas of research include the development and application of novel sorbents/catalysts for removing environmental pollutants and bioconcrete.
Ph.D. Student and Postdoc Positions Available
The ideal candidate must have a Master of Science degree (for Ph.D. position) or a Ph.D. degree (for Postdoc position) in environmental engineering or environmental microbiology (or related field) with specific expertise in laboratory methods for microbiology, molecular biology, synthetic biology, or bioinformatics or modeling.
The successful applicant will be engaged in research on biodegradation of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in different PFAS-impacted matrices (soils, biosolids, water, and plants). with opportunities to participate with other exciting projects such as plastics and biomining. Successful applicants will also demonstrate excellent writing and oral communication skill, interpersonal skills, and an ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Applicants who are currently in the U.S. are highly encouraged to apply for Fall 2026.
Applicants should send the following materials as a single pdf file containing: (1) a 1-page cover letter stating your interest in the project topics and summary of your qualifications; (2) a resume or CV; (3) up to two sample peer-reviewed publications; (4) a list of names and contact information of three references. The PDF file should send to Dr. Kung-Hui (Bella) Chu (kchu@civil.tamu.edu) with the subject line “Chu lab_Ph.D app_your last name” or “Chu lab_postdoc app_your last name”.
Interested in Joining Chu Biotechnology Lab?
We are always looking for self-motivated and talented undergraduate students, graduate students, and postdoc scholars who can drive exciting new projects in environmental biotechnology. Please e-mail one-page research interest statement and your resume to Dr. Chu (kchu@civil.tamu.edu), with a subject line as “UG applicant_name”, “M.S. applicant _name”, Ph.D. applicant_name”, or “Postdoc applicant_name”.