Technical Assoc II (R)
Rochester, NY
GENERAL PURPOSE:
The Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences at the University of Rochester seeks a Laboratory Technician whose primary responsibility is to direct and maintain a suite of geochemistry laboratories. These laboratories include an Agilent 7900 inductively-coupled plasma mass spectrometer with laser-ablation capability (Photon Machines G2 excimer 193 nm laser), a benchtop scanning electron microscope, and the experimental geochemistry laboratory (end-loaded piston cylinders, 1 atmosphere furnaces, and associated peripherals). Duties include, but are not necessarily limited to, training of departmental and external users, engaging in collaborative scientific research with the University of Rochester faculty, post-docs, and students, trouble-shooting the instruments and software, preparation of samples and reagents, interfacing with technical support representatives, ordering supplies, maintaining records and files, and serving as the liaison to the campus safety office for these laboratories.
SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES:
The associate is required to exercise independent technical judgment including the participation federally-funded research.
Develops operating procedures for the University of Rochester LA-ICP-MS instrument; explores different protocols as needed for individual research projects.
The technical associate is responsible for independent operation of this complex laboratory instrument; serves as the subject matter expert on the LA-ICP-MS instrument, resolves any issues the equipment maintenance and repairs, develops training methods for faculty, staff and students associated with various research projects.
Participates in the development of new techniques for mineral analysis and synthesis. This may involve designing or modifying new or existing equipment, developing and modifying test methods, selecting procedures for data collection and handling, and developing computer programs for conversions and statistical treatment of data.
Prepares written reports on assigned area of research, co-authors with the Principal Investigators’ reports and articles for publication.
Analyzes and evaluates experimental data and interprets results within the scope of federally-funded projects; assesses the importance of findings in relation to the general research project.
Exercises independent judgment, develops operating procedures in the experimental geochemistry laboratory including pressure temperature calibrations and hardware-software interfaces.
Teaches laboratory techniques and instrumentation procedures to students; counsels them on technical problems; advises and assists students with their unique research projects.
Ensures that health and safety practices are maintained in accordance with University policy and the law.
Establishes and implements research laboratory procedures for heavy mineral separation area; maintains contact with outside research laboratories vendors and technical representatives concerning this LA-ICP-MS research instrument; authorizes repairs and maintenance.
Other duties as assigned
REQUIREMENTS:
B.S degree in the Natural Sciences required
Master's or doctoral degree in geoscience (or related natural science field) preferred.
At least 2 years of hands-on experience using one or more of the instrument/techniques described above are preferred. Previous experience with electron beam technologies (e.g., SEM, EMPA), and experimental geochemistry techniques is also desirable.
PLEASE EMAIL 3 LETTERS OF REFERENCE TO : j.tschirhart@rochester.edu
The University of Rochester is committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving a culture of equity, diversity, and inclusion to advance the University’s mission to Learn, Discover, Heal, Create – and Make the World Ever Better. In support of our values and those of our society, the University is committed to not discriminating on the basis of age, color, disability, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, military/veteran status, national origin, race, religion/creed, sex, sexual orientation, citizenship status, or any other status protected by law. This commitment extends to the administration of our policies, admissions, employment, access, and recruitment of candidates from underrepresented populations, veterans, and persons with disabilities consistent with these values and government contractor Affirmative Action obligations.
How To Apply
PLEASE EMAIL 3 LETTERS OF REFERENCE TO : j.tschirhart@rochester.edu
All applicants must apply online.
EOE Minorities/Females/Protected Veterans/Disabled
Location: The College
Full/Part Time: Full-Time
Opening: Full Time 40 hours Grade 052 Earth & Environmental Sciences