Assistant Scientist

University of Miami•Miami, FL

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Oehlert Research Group in the Department of Marine Geosciences at the University of Miami, Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric and Earth Science invites applications for an Assistant Scientist position supporting a funded research program investigating the geochemistry of extreme environments. This is a full-time research position funded through a multi-year project investigating sedimentary, geochemical, and biogeochemical processes in lacustrine systems of the Atacama Desert, Chile. The position is initially funded for one year, with anticipated renewal opportunities for up to two additional years based on performance and continued project funding. About the Research Program The Oehlert Research Group investigates the interactions among biological, chemical, and physical processes that govern sediment formation and preservation in modern and ancient environments. Current research focuses on extreme lacustrine systems of the Atacama Desert, a unique natural laboratory for studying biogeochemical cycling, environmental change, sedimentary processes, and the preservation of biosignatures. The successful candidate will join a highly collaborative research team working at the interface of sedimentology, geochemistry, limnology, and microbiology.

Requirements

Ph.D. in Geochemistry, Geology, Oceanography, Environmental Science, Earth Science, or a closely related discipline
Demonstrated record of scientific productivity through peer-reviewed publications
Experience conducting laboratory-based geochemical research
Strong organizational and project management skills
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative research team
Enthusiastic about field-based research and willing to travel internationally.

Nice To Haves

Experience operating and troubleshooting Gas Bench and Elemental Analyzer-Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry (EA-IRMS) systems
Experience with stable isotope geochemistry and potentially method development
Prior supervision or mentoring of students
Prior field experience
Experience with statistical analysis and scientific programming (e.g., R)

Responsibilities

Managing day-to-day research activities associated with the project
Operating and maintaining geochemical instrumentation and laboratory facilities
Conducting sample preparation and geochemical analyses
Supporting Research Group by mentoring undergraduate and graduate student researchers
Assisting with laboratory management, data quality control, lab safety, and project coordination
Participating in interdisciplinary collaborations across the University of Miami and partner institutions internationally
Contributing and possibly leading manuscript preparation, publication of research results, and scientific presentations
Supporting and, where appropriate, co-leading grant proposal development in collaboration with the Principal Investigator
Participate in approximately two major field campaigns, each lasting approximately three weeks.