Assistant Scientist

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The Oehlert Research Group in the Department of Marine Geosciences at the University of Miami, Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric and Earth Science invites applications for an Assistant Scientist position supporting a funded research program investigating the geochemistry of extreme environments. This is a full-time research position funded through a multi-year project investigating sedimentary, geochemical, and biogeochemical processes in lacustrine systems of the Atacama Desert, Chile. The position is initially funded for one year, with anticipated renewal opportunities for up to two additional years based on performance and continued project funding.

About the Research Program

The Oehlert Research Group investigates the interactions among biological, chemical, and physical processes that govern sediment formation and preservation in modern and ancient environments. Current research focuses on extreme lacustrine systems of the Atacama Desert, a unique natural laboratory for studying biogeochemical cycling, environmental change, sedimentary processes, and the preservation of biosignatures.

The successful candidate will join a highly collaborative research team working at the interface of sedimentology, geochemistry, limnology, and microbiology.

Position Responsibilities

The Assistant Scientist will play a leading role in the execution of active research projects and laboratory operations. Responsibilities include:

• Managing day-to-day research activities associated with the project
• Operating and maintaining geochemical instrumentation and laboratory facilities
• Conducting sample preparation and geochemical analyses
• Supporting Research Group by mentoring undergraduate and graduate student researchers
• Assisting with laboratory management, data quality control, lab safety, and project coordination
• Participating in interdisciplinary collaborations across the University of Miami and partner institutions internationally
• Contributing and possibly leading manuscript preparation, publication of research results, and scientific presentations
• Supporting and, where appropriate, co-leading grant proposal development in collaboration with the Principal Investigator

Field Research

The position includes substantial fieldwork opportunities. Team member will be expected to participate in approximately two major field campaigns, each lasting approximately three weeks. Applicants should be enthusiastic about field-based research and willing to travel internationally.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Geochemistry, Geology, Oceanography, Environmental Science, Earth Science, or a closely related discipline
• Demonstrated record of scientific productivity through peer-reviewed publications
• Experience conducting laboratory-based geochemical research
• Strong organizational and project management skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative research team

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience operating and troubleshooting Gas Bench and Elemental Analyzer-Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry (EA-IRMS) systems
• Experience with stable isotope geochemistry and potentially method development
• Prior supervision or mentoring of students
• Prior field experience
• Experience with statistical analysis and scientific programming (e.g., R)

Professional Development Opportunities

The position offers opportunities for scientific leadership, development of independent research directions aligned with laboratory themes, mentorship of student researchers, method development, authorship of high-impact publications, and participation in external funding proposals.

Application Materials

Applicants should submit:

• Cover letter describing research interests and relevant experience, including how their expertise aligns with project goals
• Curriculum vitae
• Contact information for three professional references

The University of Miami is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages applications from individuals of diverse backgrounds and experiences.

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Job Status:

Full time

Employee Type:

Staff