The Environmental Chemistry Laboratory at the Natural Resources Research Institute (NRRI) is seeking an Environmental Chemistry Research Assistant to join our team and support applied research to address growing concern around emerging contaminants. We are an interdisciplinary group of research staff, postdoctoral researchers, and graduate students with backgrounds in chemistry and engineering and a shared passion for the environment.
Topics of ongoing research within the laboratory include bench-scale evaluation of adsorption-based technologies for removal of poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from stormwater and groundwater, field evaluation of biochar-amended filtration systems for removal of pesticides from stormwater, and assessment of legacy and emerging contaminants in sediments of the Great Lakes. The Laboratory Technician will work closely with research staff, students, and postdoctoral researchers to provide laboratory and administrative support, and may also participate in field work as necessary, including shipboard work on the Great Lakes.
This is an hourly temporary position with a time commitment of 20-30 hours per week at an hourly rate of $20/hr. Job Duties Laboratory analytical support (30%): Perform extraction procedures for sediments and passive samplers according to Standard Operating Procedures. Maintain detailed records of laboratory activities and prepare summary data reports. Research support (30%): Assist with experimental tasks evaluating contaminant uptake by passive samplers, including collection and preparation of samples for instrumental analysis. Instrumental analysis (20%): Operate analytical instrumentation, review data to ensure compliance with QA/QC criteria, process and analyze experimental data. Field work (10%): Assist with fieldwork as necessary, including deployment and collection of passive samplers in streams. Laboratory upkeep (10%): Cleaning glassware and lab spaces, monitoring waste storage areas, submitting waste for disposal. Required Qualifications Bachelorâ™s degree in environmental science or related discipline or a combination of education and work to equal 4 years. Completion of post-secondary coursework in Organic Chemistry and Analytical Chemistry. Demonstrated laboratory skills in Analytical Chemistry, as evident through work experience, research experience, or completion of a practical laboratory course. Focus with attention to detail to carry out laboratory tasks on time and with good precision. Ability to work independently and in a team setting. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint. Effective oral and written communication in English. Valid U.S. driverâ™s license and clean driving record. Preferred Qualifications Bachelorâ™s degree with a concentration in Chemistry (major or minor). Experience performing research in an environmental chemistry laboratory setting, particularly relating to quantitative analytical chemistry and analysis of freshwater systems. Experience with various laboratory instrumentation, including ion chromatography and gas chromatography mass spectrometry. Completion of coursework or training in Hydrology and/or Geographic Information Science (GIS). Demonstrated communication, outreach, and leadership skills. About University of Minnesota Duluth
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