Lab Manager
About The Position
The Department of Earth, Environmental, and Planetary Sciences is looking to hire a lab manager for a cluster of microscopic imaging and analytical systems plus a trace-metal clean lab. The mass spectrometry lab includes a Sapphire XD MC-ICP-MS with an ESL 193nm excimer laser system, a Thermo Element II ICP-MS, and an iCAP TQ-ICP-MS. The microscopic lab is equipped with a JEOL IT200-LA SEM and Keyence VHX-1 digital microscope. We seek a highly motivated individual with a strong background in geochronology, geochemistry, and ICP-MS instrumentation. The Lab Manager will play a central role in shaping analytical capabilities and advancing high-impact planetary/Earth science research. This is a three-year appointment, with a proposed start date of May 1, 2026 (negotiable). Reappointment may be possible, contingent on the availability of funding.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree
- Two or more (2+) years of related experience
- Demonstrated expertise in ICP-MS and/or isotope ratio mass spectrometry
- Strong background in geochronology or isotope geochemistry
- Skilled in analytical method development
- Excellent written and oral communication skills
- Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to a team
- Strong organizational and time-management skills
Nice To Haves
- Ideal candidates will have a Ph.D. in geology, geochemistry, chemistry or related field.
- Experience with ICP-MS method development
- Experience with collision-reaction-cell and mass-filter technologies
- Experience working with extraterrestrial materials
- Experience in clean laboratory protocols
- Demonstrated success publishing peer-reviewed research
Responsibilities
- Developing and optimizing laser probe-based radiometric dating techniques
- Establishing analytical protocols for LA-(MC)-ICP-MS isotope measurements
- Managing laboratory operations, including day-to-day activities and long-term planning
- Maintaining and troubleshooting mass spectrometry and microscope instrumentation, along with broader laboratory equipment and facilities
- Managing laboratory procedures, procurement of supplies, and budget tracking
- Ensuring laboratory safety, compliance, and organization
- Training and mentoring graduate students and postdoctoral researchers
- Contributing to scholarly publications and conference presentations
- Supporting collaborations within Rice University and external institutions
- Performs all other duties as assigned
Benefits
- health, dental, and vision insurance
- a 403(b) retirement plan
- paid time off
- Relocation reimbursement of up to $1,500 with receipts provided
- Funds for attending at least one conference per year
- An office desktop with the necessary software
- Collaborative and interdisciplinary research opportunities at Rice University and in Greater Houston
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Number of Employees
501-1,000 employees
