Job Postings

Ice Core and Atmospheric Chemistry Lab Scientist

The Scientist will work on projects focused on understanding the composition and chemistry of the past and modern atmosphere. The research would use measurements of carbon-14 of carbon monoxide (¹⁴CO) from a global network of atmospheric observatories as well as from polar ice cores to improve our understanding of how atmospheric oxidizing capacity varies in space and time. The research would also use measurements of carbon-14 of methane (¹⁴CH₄) from a global network of atmospheric observatories as well as from polar ice cores to improve our understanding of methane emissions from fossil sources. The Scientist would be expected to develop and test sampling and analytical systems required for the work, conduct sample measurements using cavity ring-down spectroscopy, process the air samples to extract CO and CH₄ carbon for ¹⁴C analysis and participate in data analysis, interpretation and writing of scientific journal articles. After acquiring any needed start-up training in the Ice Core and Atmospheric Chemistry Lab, the Scientist would also be expected to train students in the lab, as well as manage the day-to-day operations of the lab. Provided there is interest, there would also be opportunities to participate in fieldwork, become involved in projects in other research groups in the Earth and Environmental Sciences (EES) department, as well as teach. The intention is for this to be a long-term position.

A typical breakdown of effort is as follows, although this may vary depending on the stage of the projects:
Sample measurements and processing - 50%
Developing and testing analytical systems - 20%
Training students and other staff in the lab - 15%
General lab operations and safety - 10%
Fieldwork - 5%

QUALIFICATIONS:
Required: PhD in an appropriate discipline (Geosciences, Chemistry, Physics or related discipline) or MS in one of these disciplines with appropriate experience. Multiple years of experience working in an analytical laboratory.

Preferred but not required: Experience with vacuum systems, gas handling, atmospheric sampling and measurements and ice core handling, mass spectrometry, electronics and mechanical repair, working with equipment vendors / tech support.

For applicants with a doctoral or master's degree, please apply here.

For applicants with a bachelor's degree, please apply here to Job ID 244719.

Paleomagnetic Research Lab Scientist

The Scientist will prepare samples utilizing facilities at the University of Rochester (UR) and other laboratories to undertake microscope and magnetic analyses of samples using equipment such as a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Focused Ion Beam (FIB), Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM), and other analysis equipment in the Paleomagnetic Research Lab. The Scientist will heavily use electron and light microscopes and preparation devices, magnetic sample preparation and concentration devices. The Scientist will also work with student researchers and provide training in sample preparation and device usage as needed. A typical breakdown of effort follows, but during initial employment, more time will be devoted to sample preparation.

70% SEM/TEM/FIB/SQUID analysis: The Scientist will be required to exercise independent technical judgment including the participation in externally-funded research. The Scientist will be responsible for independent operation of complex laboratory instrument including but not limited to SEM, TEM, FIB and SQUID magnetometer instruments at the UR and external locations. They will serve as the subject matter expert on these instruments. Analyzes and evaluates experimental data and interprets results within the scope of externally-funded projects; assesses the importance of findings in relation to the general research project.

20% Sample preparation: Research samples need to be prepared differently depending on the type of analysis being completed and the equipment being used. The Scientist will prepare rare samples for analysis according to the specification required for the equipment.

5% Student instruction: Create and document procedures for using UR equipment. Instruct lab members on the correct usage of UR equipment and supervise usage as necessary.

5% Other: Authorize repairs and performs maintenance on UR equipment in the Paleomagnetic Research Lab. Contacts and schedules machine usage at external institutions. Interface with Optics Department in materials for testing QDM magnetometer.

QUALIFICATIONS:
PhD in an appropriate discipline (Materials Science, Physics, Geology/Geophysics/Biology) required or MS with appropriate experience. Experience in sample preparation required. SEM/FIB/TEM techniques preferred. Must be able to drive to other local universities for analyses as needed (e.g. Cornell University).

Please apply here.