Research Associate

Summary:

The Research Associate serves as a Senior Lab and Research Technician and will manage daily operations in the Tibbetts laboratory and contribute to the research program in laser synthesis of nanomaterials. Responsibilities include routine maintenance of the laser synthesis reactors, characterization of synthesis products using instrumentation at the VCU Nanomaterials Characterization Center (NCC) and the laser mass spectrometer in the Tibbetts lab, and training graduate students in setting up experiments, collecting data, and writing scientific manuscripts. It is expected that the research associate will primarily work in-person in the laboratory, but limited remote work (< 10 hrs./week) for data analysis and writing is possible.

Senior Lab and Research Technicians possess a greater knowledge of proper lab and research techniques and protocols, distinguishing them from Lab and Research Technicians. They are further distinguished by the complexity of assigned work; an ability to identify options and develop solutions for unique or unprecedented situations; greater decision-making authority; and the judgment, resourcefulness, and ability to identify issues and/or areas that should be addressed differently. They are resources for others, participating in mentoring, coaching, and training.

The selected candidate understands that this is a restricted position and continuation depends on continuation of funding. As an hourly position, the selected candidate also understands that only an average of 28 to 29 work hours per week not to exceed 1480 hours over 12 months (May 1-April 30) is allowed.

Required Qualifications:

PhD in Chemistry or related field

Preferred Qualifications:

Expertise in materials characterization on instrumentation at VCU NCC including completion of all required training; experience in routine operation of the Coherent Astrella laser system and associated mass spectrometer; working knowledge of LabVIEW, MATLAB, and ImageJ software.