Research Scientist

Job Summary The Research Scientist in the Center for Advances in Water and Air Quality (CAWAQ) plays a key role in supporting multidisciplinary research on water, air, and environmental quality. The position collaborates with faculty, principal investigators, and students to design experiments, analyze complex data, and produce peer-reviewed research outputs. The Research Scientist is also responsible for maintaining laboratory standards, supervising student workers, and contributing to the development of innovative research methodologies that support the university's mission of research excellence.

Essential Job Functions
* Conduct and support research activities in collaboration with faculty, graduate students, and external partners; analyze and interpret data using scientific and statistical methods.
* Draft, edit, and contribute to scientific manuscripts, technical reports, and grant proposals; assist with publications and dissemination of research findings.
* Manage and maintain laboratory instrumentation and quality control protocols; develop and revise standard operating procedures (SOPs) for new or modified methodologies.
* Supervise and mentor student workers and other laboratory personnel; ensure adherence to safety and research protocols.
* Contribute to the development and extension of funded research through proposal writing and collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.
* Participate in weekly department and project meetings; engage in collaborative problem-solving and planning discussions.
* Support university and departmental service goals, including outreach and community engagement activities when required. Minimum and Desired Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

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Master's degree (or bachelor's degree with two or more years of lab experience) in chemistry, environmental engineering, chemical engineering, or a closely related field with a proven record of actively working in a research or laboratory environment involving scientific documentation or dissemination of results.
* Fundamental understanding of chemical and/or biological principles relevant to water quality or wastewater engineering
* Experience in analytical instrumentation.
* Experience applying first-principle and/or statistical models for assessing chemical, biological, or environmental engineering systems. Supplemental Information Key

Competencies:

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• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  * Excellent written and oral communication skills
  * Ability to collaborate with multidisciplinary research teams
  * Experience with scientific documentation and report writing
  * Ability to manage laboratory instrumentation and perform quality control
  * Self-motivated with the ability to supervise and train others
  
  Physical Requirements:
  
  Able to lift 25 pounds and be able to perform a variety of physical tasks including lifting, bending, stooping, squatting, stair climbing, and walking between buildings. Job
  
  Conditions:
  
  May require occasional evening and/or weekend work to meet university and departmental needs.
  
  Who We Are:
  
  Home to more than 18,000 students, Lamar University is among the fastest growing Texas colleges and universities. LU is a member of The Texas State University System, which is the first higher education system of Texas and maintains the lowest average tuition and fees of any university system in Texas. With more than 120-degree options and a community that cares, Lamar students are always proud to be Cardinals.
  
  Lamar University strives to educate leaders, demonstrate excellence in student learning and career readiness, and pursue research with relevance. Lamar University is committed to fostering an environment of teamwork where all students, faculty, and staff can learn, work, and become a part of our community.