Primary Function:
AIS is seeking a chemist to work closely with dedicated NOAA scientists under established standard operating procedures (SOP) to process oyster samples for nutrient analysis. Candidates must be comfortable with basic chemistry lab skills and utilizing hazardous chemicals. The technician will also provide investigative support for new research directions through review and synthesis of existing literature related to eastern oysters in the Gulf of Mexico. This is an excellent opportunity for an early career chemist with an advanced degree interested in applied research.
Duties/Responsibilities:
- Analyze samples on a spectrophotometer, elemental analyzer, and other analytical instruments.
- Work with centrifuges and muffle furnace according to standard operating procedure.
- Follow standard operating procedures (SOP) for washing glassware using a hydrochloric acid water bath and making standard solutions, reagents, and other chemical solutions as needed for sample analysis.
- Understand safety procedures in the laboratory, handle chemicals safely, correctly label chemicals and hazardous waste and dispose of chemical reagents in compliance with state regulations.
- Conduct routine quality control (QAQC) procedures on measurements for all analysis.
- Run determinations of Phosphate concentrations in both dried oyster tissue and shell samples.
- Search common databases of peer-reviewed literature (e.g., Web of Science, Google Scholar) and review articles for data availability and relevance to research topic of interest.
- Compile, organize, QAQC, and maintain data from internal and external sources into spreadsheet and/or database format.
- Be able to work independently.
- Provide detailed laboratory notebooks of sample analysis when requested.
- Visualize data, create summary statistics, conduct preliminary data exploration, determine precision and accuracy of in-house sample analysis.
- Combust samples and use a grinding and sieve method for samples according to standard operating procedures.
- Use power tools to grind shells.
- Complete mandatory safety training.
- Modify standard operating procedures and create standard operating procedures when necessary.
Minimum Qualifications:
- M.S. in Biological or Chemical Sciences required.
- Understanding of Microsoft Office Suite
- Be able to lift 50 pounds
- Be able to drive
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in environmental chemistry
- Experience performing bench work in lab
- Experience reviewing research literature
- Experience in data management and/or analysis
