Lab Research Associate
Clemson University, Clemson, SC, United States
Job Summary
The Lab Research Associate will lead the operation and maintenance of the LECO 828 analyzer for carbon and nitrogen analysis of soil and plant samples, process soil and plant samples for analysis with ultra high resolution mass spectrometers, assist with field deployment of multi‑chamber LI‑COR system and smart chambers, and participate in field sampling of soils and plants. Other duties as assigned.
Job Duties
50% – Prepare samples for elemental analysis (carbon and nitrogen) and lead operation and maintenance of LECO 828 analyzer, including grinding, sieving, weighing, analyzing on instrument, and generating reports. Also maintain the analyzer, troubleshoot, and perform manufacturer‑permitted repairs.
30% – Prepare plant and soil samples for molecular analysis using mass spectrometers coupled to gas and liquid chromatographs, including sample extractions, cleanup, and concentrations as per established protocols. Semi‑independent operation of chromatography‑mass spectrometry instruments.
10% – Assist the lead Field Technician with field deployment of multi‑chamber LI‑COR system and smart chambers for GHG emission measurements, suction lysimeters for collection of soil leachates, and participate in field sampling of soils and plants.
10% – Data analysis, preparation of reports and presentations, and assistance with routine operations of the lab, greenhouse, instrumentation, and related projects.
Minimum Requirements
Bachelor's Degree in chemistry or natural sciences with academic credits in chemistry, plus related work experience.
At least 2 years of independent lab experience operating and maintaining analytical instruments, including elemental analyzers, chromatography instruments, or mass spectrometers.
Preferred Requirements
Master's Degree in Ecology, Soil Science, Plant Sciences, or related disciplines with field research experience.
Driver’s License, Class D normal
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The Lab Research Associate will lead the operation and maintenance of the LECO 828 analyzer for carbon and nitrogen analysis of soil and plant samples, process soil and plant samples for analysis with ultra high resolution mass spectrometers, assist with field deployment of multi‑chamber LI‑COR system and smart chambers, and participate in field sampling of soils and plants. Other duties as assigned.
Job Duties
50% – Prepare samples for elemental analysis (carbon and nitrogen) and lead operation and maintenance of LECO 828 analyzer, including grinding, sieving, weighing, analyzing on instrument, and generating reports. Also maintain the analyzer, troubleshoot, and perform manufacturer‑permitted repairs.
30% – Prepare plant and soil samples for molecular analysis using mass spectrometers coupled to gas and liquid chromatographs, including sample extractions, cleanup, and concentrations as per established protocols. Semi‑independent operation of chromatography‑mass spectrometry instruments.
10% – Assist the lead Field Technician with field deployment of multi‑chamber LI‑COR system and smart chambers for GHG emission measurements, suction lysimeters for collection of soil leachates, and participate in field sampling of soils and plants.
10% – Data analysis, preparation of reports and presentations, and assistance with routine operations of the lab, greenhouse, instrumentation, and related projects.
Minimum Requirements
Bachelor's Degree in chemistry or natural sciences with academic credits in chemistry, plus related work experience.
At least 2 years of independent lab experience operating and maintaining analytical instruments, including elemental analyzers, chromatography instruments, or mass spectrometers.
Preferred Requirements
Master's Degree in Ecology, Soil Science, Plant Sciences, or related disciplines with field research experience.
Driver’s License, Class D normal
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