Research Associate Specialist

Research Associate Specialist

Position Type:
Other Academic

Department: LSUAG Vice Presidents Office
- Audubon Sugar Institute (Stephania Imbachi Ordonez ))

Work Location:

0101 Audubon Sugar Institute
- Iberville Parish

Pay Grade:
Other Academic

Job Description:

Work Location:

Audubon Sugar Institute, Louisiana State University Agricultural Center, St. Gabriel, Louisiana. Audubon Sugar Institute has been a part of the Louisiana State University System for over 100 years. It is unique in offering a mix of research, extension, education and training in all aspects of sugar processing. It is committed to achieving excellence in the local and international areas.

Position

Description:

80% (Research) – The individual will be responsible for conducting physical and chemical analyses of sugar factory products, including juices, syrups, molasses, massecuites, sugar, and other process materials, as well as samples submitted by other industries or external clients, as needed. Responsibilities include preparing and analyzing samples, maintaining accurate laboratory records, reporting results in a timely manner, and ensuring laboratory equipment is properly maintained and calibrated.

The individual will maintain chemical, supply, and equipment inventories, keep the laboratory clean, organized, and in compliance with laboratory safety standards, follow laboratory safety procedures, and assist with periodic laboratory safety inspections and other laboratory duties as assigned. 20% (Extension) – The incumbent will assist with research and extension projects by traveling to sugar factories, research facilities, industrial sites, and other locations to collect samples and record operating data.

The incumbent will perform laboratory analyses of collected samples, assist with summarizing and reporting results, and may contribute to technical reports, posters, and presentations for industry meetings and conferences. Regular travel is required, and the incumbent is expected to operate a university or personal vehicle, as appropriate, to fulfill these responsibilities.

Qualification Requirements: A minimum of a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry/Biochemistry/ Chemical Engineering/Analytical Chemistry or closely related field plus experience in chemical research or analyses. Experience with analytical methods used in sugar processing research. Proficiency with instruments such as refractometers, spectrophotometers, and High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) is preferable. A valid driver's license and the ability to travel independently to sugar factories, research facilities, industrial sites, and other locations throughout Louisiana are required.

Salary and Benefits:
Salary will be commensurate with education and experience. The LSU AgCenter has an attractive benefits package with a wide variety of benefit options. Current benefits offered include retirement, multiple medical insurance options, supplemental insurances (dental, life, long-term disability, accident, vision, long-term care, etc.), Tax Saver Flexible Benefits Plan (saves tax dollars on some child care and medical expenses), university holidays (14 per year, typically includes a week off at Christmas), generous annual (vacation) and sick leave benefits, Employee Assistance Program, and possible educational leave and tuition exemption for coursework at campuses of the LSU System.

Specific benefits depend on job category, percent effort and length of employment.

Date Available:

Upon completion of the selection process.

Final date to receive applications:
August 11, 2026 or until a suitable candidate is identified.

Application Procedure:
Apply online at  (or through Workday for internal applicants) by attaching files containing a letter of application, curriculum vita, official university transcripts, and three letters of reference. Paper, faxed or e-mailed application materials will not be accepted, except that in lieu of attaching the reference letters online, they may be sent directly to:

Stephania Imbachi-Ordonez, PhD.

Research-Instructor

Audubon Sugar Institute - LSU Agricultural Center

3845 Hwy 75, St. Gabriel, LA. 70776

E-mail: simbachiordonez.edu

The LSU Agricultural Center is a statewide campus of the LSU System and provides equal opportunities in programs and employment.