Research Associate, Research Scientist, Environmental Science

• This position is an on-site position which requires the incumbent to complete their work primarily at an NAU site, campus, or facility with or without accommodation. Opportunities for remote work are rare.
• This position is subject to the availability of funding.

The School of Earth & Sustainability is part of the College of the Environment, Forestry & Natural Science at Northern Arizona University's Flagstaff Mountain Campus.

The researcher oversees the daily operations of the joint Amino Acid Geochronology and Sedimentary Records of Environmental Change Lab, and forms a bridge with the ACE Isotope Lab. The position is funded 100% through grants and contracts. The researcher, with the assistance of student helpers, analyzes samples for amino acid geochronology, prepares samples for radiocarbon analyses and measures a variety of biophysical properties of sediment, mainly from lake sediment cores.

The researcher oversees the laboratory and supervises students in a variety of analyses procedures, while assuring high-quality data and a safe working environment. These analyses are part of externally sponsored research into environmental and climate change, and geologic hazards over a range of historical and prehistorical timescales.

50%
-Laboratory Analysis & Data Management

• Analyze samples for their amino acid composition and radiocarbon ages, including:
• Preparing samples (organics, sediments, carbonates) for analysis by HPLC and by AMS 14C;
• Mixing chemicals and loading samples;
• Performing routine maintenance on the HPLC and ancillary equipment;
• Measuring a variety of sediment types for their particle-size distribution, biogenic silica and organic matter content;
• Tabulating results, judging their quality, and reporting and managing data.

25%
-Laboratory Administration & Operations

• Oversee the daily operation of the joint, Amino Acid Geochronology and Sedimentary Records of Environmental Change Laboratory, including:
• Supervising and training students and visiting researchers in laboratory procedures;
• Stocking laboratory supplies;
• Tracking incoming samples and outgoing results;
• Overseeing lab finances;
• Optimizing lab use;
• Assuring a safe working environment.

20%
-Research & Scientific Communication

• Conduct and report on scientific research, including:
• designing and conducting experiments, analyzing data, preparing manuscripts for publications, assisting with proposal writing, and presenting findings at professional meetings.

5% - Other

• Other duties as assigned.

• Master’s degree in Earth Science, Environmental Science, Biogeochemistry, or related field.
• 4 years of research experience.

* A combination of related education, experience, and training may be used as an equivalent to the above Minimum Qualifications.

• Experience with techniques and equipment used in the laboratory.
• Experience with research into Quaternary geochronology and paleo environments.
• Supervisory experience.

Knowledge

• Knowledge of organic chemistry.
• Knowledge of the use of laboratory instruments.
• Knowledge of the principles and techniques of the subject disciplines.

Skills

• Organizational and project management skills.
• Leadership, coordination, and supervision skills.
• Data collection, processing and analysis.

Abilities

• Highly motivated to perform research in a collaborative environment.
• Establishes and maintains effective working relationships.
• Communicates effectively.

Salary range is $58,882 to $73,434.Annual salary commensurate with candidate's qualifications and related experience.

Northern Arizona University requires satisfactory results for the following: a criminal…