Research Assistant I

MSU Careers Details•East Lansing, MI

20h•Onsite

About The Position

The Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center (GLBRC) is a U.S. Department of Energy-funded Bioenergy Research Center, led by the University of Wisconsin–Madison with Michigan State University as its principal partner. Within the GLBRC, the Biomass Analytics Facility (BAF) is one of the center’s Core Facilities and provides analytical services ranging from high-throughput digestibility screening to detailed cell wall compositional analysis of all biomass feedstocks. The GLBRC has been a leader in biofuel research, developing sustainable biofuels and bioproducts that are economically viable and environmentally sustainable. The GLBRC leverages its success on an outstanding combination of expertise and resources available across its member institutions. We seek a motivated candidate to join our research team lab to contribute to a collaborative laboratory environment by planning, designing, and conducting experiments that support a broad range of research objectives. Key responsibilities include performing standard and high-throughput biomass composition and digestibility analyses; generating, compiling, analyzing, and interpreting experimental data; and maintaining accurate and organized records of laboratory activities and results. The candidate will communicate effectively with supervisors and researchers regarding project expectations, timelines, and analytical outcomes. Additional duties include contributing to technical reports, scientific publications, and research manuscripts; participating in laboratory training activities; ensuring compliance with laboratory safety policies and procedures; maintaining and operating analytical instrumentation; and assisting with the supervision and review of work performed by trainees and student employees. The position also involves supporting the coordination of research projects and daily laboratory operations. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning and professional development, staying current with advances in biomass analytics and related methodologies. They will also play an active role in optimizing existing protocols and developing new analytical approaches to meet the evolving research needs of investigators within the Center.

Requirements

Equivalent of an undergraduate degree in Biochemistry, Chemistry, Biology, Plant Science, or related field. Or an equivalent combination of education and experience
At least one year of laboratory experience
At least one year of experience operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting analytical instrumentation (e.g., GC-MS, HPLC, Spectroscopy)
Experience using relevant analytical software and interpreting and QA/QC of data.
Experience developing and generating protocols, reports, and other required documentation for data management (e.g., laboratory information management system) Or an equivalent combination of education and experience

Nice To Haves

Relevant analytical chemistry lab and/or research experience in the field of biomass analytics and lignocellulosic feedstocks are preferred
Familiarity with statistical data analysis
Significant attention to detail
Clear record-keeping skills with special attention to data traceability
Superior oral and written communication skills
Proficient, independent, and flexible individual who can manage multiple ongoing projects.

Responsibilities

Perform biomass compositional analyses using routine wet chemistry techniques and advanced laboratory instrumentation.
Operate and maintain automated robotic systems for sample grinding, weighing, and liquid handling, as well as other analytical platforms, to support high-throughput biomass characterization efforts.
Generate high-quality analytical data by conducting quality control (QC) procedures and validating experimental results.
Maintain accurate and comprehensive laboratory records; compile, analyze, and summarize findings; communicate results and project updates through the Data Catalog and Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS); and contribute to technical reports, scientific manuscripts, and peer-reviewed publications.
Provide guidance and review the work of student employees and trainees to ensure data quality and integrity.
Calibrate, troubleshoot, and maintain a diverse suite of analytical instruments and automated laboratory systems, including robotic grinding, weighing, and liquid-handling platforms, HPLC, GC-MS, thermogravimetric analyzers, nitrogen analyzers, spectrometers, and related equipment.
Coordinate with manufacturers’ technical support teams as needed to ensure optimal instrument performance and reliability.
Support efficient laboratory operations by coordinating workflows with team members, maintaining a safe and organized work environment, preparing stock solutions and calibration standards, and managing laboratory supplies, consumables, and inventory.
Contribute to the development and optimization of analytical methods and protocols to enhance facility capabilities.
Stay current with emerging research, methodologies, and terminology in biomass composition analysis and apply this knowledge to improve laboratory processes and services.