Research Associate/Fellow

Auburn University•Auburn, AL

37d•Onsite

About The Position

The College of Agriculture at Auburn University is seeking a Research Associate/Fellow. This role involves preparing and analyzing various samples (e.g., water, soil, manure) using advanced analytical techniques such as Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS), Gas Chromatography (GC), High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). The primary objective is to ensure the generation of accurate and reliable data, adhering strictly to all quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) procedures and safety regulations. This is a two-year limited-term position funded by external sources, with continuation dependent on fund availability.

Requirements

Master’s degree from an accredited institution in chemistry, analytical chemistry, or closely related field and 2 years of experience working in an analytical or environmental laboratory setting, with hands-on experience operating GC, HPLC, IC, FTIR, XRD, and ICP-Ms instruments (for Research Associate II).
Master’s degree from an accredited institution in chemistry, analytical chemistry, or closely related field and 4 years of experience working in an analytical or environmental laboratory setting, with hands-on experience operating GC, HPLC, IC, FTIR, XRD, and ICP-Ms instruments (for Research Associate III).
Ph.D. from an accredited institution in chemistry, analytical chemistry, or closely related field and 2 years of experience working in an analytical or environmental laboratory setting, with hands-on experience operating GC, HPLC, IC, FTIR, XRD, and ICP-Ms instruments (for Research Fellow II).
When a candidate has the required education, but lacks the required experience, they may normally apply additional appropriate education toward the experience requirement, at a rate of one (1) year relevant education per year of required experience.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree from an accredited institution in chemistry, analytical chemistry, or closely related field; no experience required (for Research Associate I).
Ph.D. from an accredited institution in chemistry, analytical chemistry, or closely related field; no experience required (for Research Fellow I).

Responsibilities

Collect (if required), prepare, and process a variety of samples for analysis using appropriate extraction and digestion techniques.
Operate, calibrate, and perform routine and preventive maintenance on ICP-MS, GC, HPLC, IC, XRD, and FTIR instruments, as well as other general laboratory equipment.
Interpret test data, record results accurately, and generate comprehensive reports.
Follow standardized protocols, perform quality control checks, and adhere to all health, safety, and regulatory guidelines (e.g., EPA guidelines).
Identify and resolve technical issues with instrumentation and analytical procedures, potentially assisting in the development and validation of new methods.
Maintain accurate documentation, including daily logs and equipment record books, and collaborate effectively with other technicians, chemists, and quality assurance teams.
Ensure a clean, safe, and organized laboratory environment, including proper handling and disposal of chemical waste.