FASenior Research Fellow

Oct 01, 2026

$56,400 annually

Oct 30, 2026 at 11:59 PM Eastern Time

Department

National Corn-to-Ethanol Research Center (NCERC)

Position Purpose

The NCERC Senior Research Fellow position provides scientific, analytical, and technical support for NCERC research programs, fermentation studies, and commercial laboratory services. The position performs laboratory analyses, supports quality assurance and quality control activities, maintains scientific equipment, documents and interprets experimental results, and assists with client- sponsored research projects.

The position is responsible for maintaining the accuracy, integrity, reliability, and appropriate documentation of laboratory data. The employee works collaboratively with researchers, engineers, operating personnel, students, laboratory colleagues, and external clients to support the successful completion of research, testing, and commercialization activities.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Laboratory Testing and Scientific Analysis
  • Perform chemical, biological, fermentation-related, and other scientific laboratory analyses using established methodologies, protocols, and instrumentation.
  • Prepare samples, reagents, standards, and materials required for laboratory testing.
  • Record, evaluate, and interpret laboratory and experimental results.
  • Identify data anomalies, inconsistencies, or testing concerns and take appropriate steps to verify results.
  • Assist with the preparation Of scientific reports, technical documentation, and summaries of analytical results.
  • Maintain the integrity, accuracy, and traceability Of data generated for research sponsors and commercial clients.
• Quality Assurance and Quality Control
  • Conduct quality assurance and quality control activities associated with laboratory testing, fermentation research, and pilot plant trials.
  • Verify that testing is conducted according to established scientific protocols, client requirements, standard operating procedures, and applicable quality standards.
  • Review analytical processes and results for accuracy, completeness, consistency, and compliance.
  • Document deviations, testing concerns, corrective actions, and other quality-related information as required.
  • Protect the integrity and reliability of scientific data provided to researchers, sponsors, and clients.
• Research, Pilot Plant, and Client Project Support
  • Provide laboratory and analytical support for NCERC research studies, pilot plant trials, fermentation projects, and commercial testing services.
  • Perform specialized assays and tests based on approved project protocols and client requirements.
  • Coordinate with researchers, engineers, operating personnel, and laboratory colleagues regarding sampling, testing schedules, analytical needs, and reporting requirements.
  • Support sample receipt, identification, preparation, storage, tracking, and archival activities.
  • Communicate laboratory results and technical information to appropriate NCERC personnel and project stakeholders.
  • Assist in resolving scientific or analytical issues that could affect project completion, data quality, or client requirements.
• Method Development and Standard Operating Procedures
  • Assist with the development, evaluation, validation, and implementation of analytical methods using HPLC, GC-MS, LC-MS, FTIR, DLS and fluorescence microscopy.
  • Prepare, review, and maintain standard operating procedures and other laboratory documentation.
  • Evaluate testing methods and laboratory processes to identify opportunities for improved accuracy, efficiency, consistency, or safety.
  • Support the incorporation of appropriate…