Research Associate 5

Louisiana State University

11d • Onsite

About The Position

The Shared Laboratory for Macro and Bio-Macromolecular Research (SLMBR), previously known as the Polymer Analysis Laboratory (PAL), includes several systems among which state-of-the-art GPC-MALS for the measurement of absolute mass and size distributions of particles and, macro and bio-macromolecules. Other SLMBR instrumentation includes equipment for light scattering (DLS, SLS), zeta potential analysis, thermal measurements (TGA, DSC), and rheological assessments (rheometer, DMA). The Research Associate of SLMBR has an essential duty to participate in oversight and maintenance of all instrumentation in the facility to ensure the smooth function of the SLIMBR facility as a university cost center.

Requirements

• PhD in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Polymer Science, or related field
• LSU values skills, experience, and expertise. Candidates who have relevant experience in key job responsibilities are encouraged to apply. An advanced degree is not required so long the candidate meets the required years of experience specified in the job description

Nice To Haves

• Experience with operation and maintenance of instrumentation for polymer and polymer solution analysis. This may include GPC-MALS, DSC/TGA, DLS/DLS, DMA, rheometer, etc.

Responsibilities

• Contributes to overseeing the operation of the SLMBR scientific facility instrumentation.
• Operates scientific instruments, including GPC-MALS, Zeta Potential, DSC, TGA.
• Develops data analysis and methods for scientific research experiments for faculty, industrial clients and outside users.
• Assist in manuscript preparation with respect to data acquisition and interpretation.
• Supports teaching efforts and supervises work done by facility users when necessary.
• Analyzes samples for non-authorized users of the above instrumentation.
• Provides technical assistance to faculty members, postdoctoral researchers, research associates, graduate and undergraduate students who wish to use macromolecular equipment. This may include hands-on training and/or development of written, web-deployed or other learning guides.
• Provides consulting to users, user training, data acquisition, and data reporting and interpretation. Beyond regular user training, other teaching (e.g., guest lectures, special visits to/from lab classes) may be requested that relies on research expertise in polymer and materials characterization.
• Contributes to maintenance efforts for the equipment related to the LSU Macromolecular Studies effort, including but not limited to instruments and computers devoted to the following methods: light scattering and Zeta potential, gel permeation chromatography (GPC-MALS), rheology, viscometry, differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, dynamic mechanical testing.
• Provide support to efforts to develop and maintain contacts through professional activity appropriate at the Ph.D. level, including: • writing or contributing to proposals for equipment modernization • student training or scientific exploration • methods development and application.
• Creates an attitude of respect and care for instrumentation, and knowledge of its limitations.
• Provides training in best practice for data security and integrity.
• Conveys a sense of urgency for all users, especially for students.

Benefits

• LSU offers outstanding benefits to eligible employees and their dependents including health, life, dental, and vision insurance; flexible spending accounts; retirement options; various leave options; paid holidays; wellness benefits; tuition exemption for qualified positions; training and development opportunities; employee discounts; and more!
• Positions approved to work outside the State of Louisiana shall be employed through Louisiana State University’s partner, nextSource Workforce Solutions, for Employer of Record Services including but not limited to employment, benefits, payroll, and tax compliance.
• Positions employed through Employer of Record Services will be offered benefits and retirement as applicable through their provider and will not be eligible for State of Louisiana benefits and retirement.

What This Job Offers

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