Research Associate Specialist
About The Position
The Audubon Sugar Institute has been a part of the Louisiana State University System for over 100 years and is unique in offering a mix of research, extension, education, and training in all aspects of sugar processing. This position is committed to achieving excellence in local and international areas. The role involves 80% research and 20% extension. In research, the individual will conduct physical and chemical analyses of sugar factory products, prepare and analyze samples, maintain laboratory records, report results, and ensure equipment is maintained and calibrated. This includes managing inventories, maintaining laboratory cleanliness and safety, and assisting with safety inspections. In extension, the incumbent will assist with research and extension projects by traveling to collect samples and operating data, performing laboratory analyses, summarizing and reporting results, and contributing to technical reports and presentations. Regular travel is required, and the incumbent is expected to operate a university or personal vehicle.
Requirements
- A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry/Biochemistry/ Chemical Engineering/Analytical Chemistry or closely related field.
- Experience in chemical research or analyses.
- Experience with analytical methods used in sugar processing research.
- A valid driver's license.
- Ability to travel independently to sugar factories, research facilities, industrial sites, and other locations throughout Louisiana.
Nice To Haves
- Proficiency with instruments such as refractometers, spectrophotometers, and High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).
Responsibilities
- Conducting physical and chemical analyses of sugar factory products, including juices, syrups, molasses, massecuites, sugar, and other process materials, as well as samples submitted by other industries or external clients.
- Preparing and analyzing samples.
- Maintaining accurate laboratory records.
- Reporting results in a timely manner.
- Ensuring laboratory equipment is properly maintained and calibrated.
- Maintaining chemical, supply, and equipment inventories.
- Keeping the laboratory clean, organized, and in compliance with laboratory safety standards.
- Following laboratory safety procedures.
- Assisting with periodic laboratory safety inspections and other laboratory duties as assigned.
- Assisting with research and extension projects by traveling to sugar factories, research facilities, industrial sites, and other locations to collect samples and record operating data.
- Performing laboratory analyses of collected samples.
- Assisting with summarizing and reporting results.
- Contributing to technical reports, posters, and presentations for industry meetings and conferences.
Benefits
- Retirement
- Multiple medical insurance options
- Supplemental insurances (dental, life, long-term disability, accident, vision, long-term care, etc.)
- Tax Saver Flexible Benefits Plan (saves tax dollars on some child care and medical expenses)
- University holidays (14 per year, typically includes a week off at Christmas)
- Generous annual (vacation) and sick leave benefits
- Employee Assistance Program
- Possible educational leave
- Tuition exemption for coursework at campuses of the LSU System
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
