Postdoctoral Researcher, Chromatographic and Mass Spectrometry Method Development

Desert Research Institute • Reno, NV

4h • Onsite

About The Position

The Organic Analytical Laboratory (OAL) in the Division of Atmospheric Sciences (DAS) of the Desert Research Institute (DRI) is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to conduct environmental science research using chromatography - mass spectrometry techniques. OAL is conducting research on characterization of wildfire smoke, micro- and nano-plastics (MNP), and emerging pollutant (e.g., PFAS). The laboratory is equipped with multiple GC/MSs and UPLC/QQQ MSs, a UPLC/QTOF MS, and a UPLC-IM-HRMS. The candidate will assist with designing and conducting experiments using various mass spectrometry analysis techniques for the current OAL projects. The candidate will also develop methods involving advanced analytical techniques for quantification of MNP and other emerging pollutants in environmental and biological matrixes. The candidate will be expected to apply for funding (both internal and external) and assist in writing grant applications. The position is located at DRI’s Reno, Nevada campus.

Requirements

• Ph.D. from an accredited institution in Analytical Chemistry, Mass Spectrometry, or a related field.
• Hands-on experience with one or more of the following: Gas and Liquid Chromatography coupled to Triple Quadrupole (QQQ), Quadrupole-Time-of-Flight (QTOF) mass spectrometry, and Ion Mobility – High Resolution Mass Spectrometry (IM-HRMS).
• Knowledge of data processing software, such as MassHunter.
• Proven experience with operation, calibration, troubleshooting, and maintenance of MS instruments and interpretation of data.
• Demonstrated proficiency in standard wet chemistry sample extraction and cleanup techniques.
• Ability to independently design and execute experiments to solve unique problems.
• Excellent English-language communication skills (oral and written).
• Demonstrated ability to perform research and publish results in peer-reviewed literature.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with MRM/SRM, IM-HRMS
• Laboratory research experience in working with biological matrixes (e.g., saliva, urine, stool, plant tissue, etc.)
• Experience with Python
• Experience writing successful grant applications

Responsibilities

• Assist with designing and conducting experiments using various mass spectrometry analysis techniques for current OAL projects.
• Develop methods involving advanced analytical techniques for quantification of MNP and other emerging pollutants in environmental and biological matrixes.
• Apply for funding (both internal and external).
• Assist in writing grant applications.

Benefits

• Postdoctoral researchers hired from this posting may be eligible for promotion to regular faculty (Assistant Research Professor) upon the successful completion of their postdoc.
• Support for the incumbent to begin to develop their own research program as a postdoc.
• DRI postdocs are eligible to serve as PIs on research grants.
• Opportunity to participate in both formal and informal early career mentoring programs provided by DRI Human Resources.
• Competitive grants and contracts with external funding agencies.
• Considerable administrative support and an Institute-wide entrepreneurial approach to maintaining success in developing funding programs.
• Possibility to teach and advise graduate students through the Graduate Schools at the University of Nevada, Reno and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree