| Location | Blacksburg, VA |
| Salary | $60,000–$70,000 Per Year |
Research Associate II, Chemist
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Job Description
An individual experienced in quantitative analysis of nutrients in foods, Standard Operating Procedures (writing, following), principles and implementation of analytical quality control and documentation, data analysis (spreadsheet, statistical), performance of GC and HPLC analyses and routine equipment maintenance, excellent verbal and written communication skills, and ability to work independently and take initiative in problem solving is needed to work on a sponsored research project in the Food Analysis Laboratory in the Biochemistry Department. The individual will, after consultation with the PI about project goals, be expected to become familiar with the analytical methods and components being analyzed, the chemistry involved, and organize work to systematically set up and validate assay methods (initially, starting from established SOPs for assays not currently being run (analysis of phytosterols, fatty acids, vitamin D, vitamin C in foods) but needing to be brought back online for analysis of research study samples, and then to analyze samples. Later the work might involve setting up new methods, and contributing to research on methodology. The methods involve liquid/liquid extraction, solid phase extraction, precise gravimetric measurements, and quantitative HPLC and GC analysis. The person will be responsible for routine maintenance and operation of two HPLC and two GC instruments, including troubleshooting analytical issues, and must have experience and competence actually doing this. The individual will also be responsible for a variety of sample preparation equipment (including homogenizers, sonicators, centrifuges, evaporators, solid phase extraction apparatus, gas cylinders, fume hoods, dry baths, vacuum and forced air ovens, analytical balances, shakers, water baths, etc.), and will provide technical expertise to junior staff, assist as needed with food sample preparation and and control materials, as well as assist the PI with publications.
This work is part of sponsored research that would be performed for one year, starting at the end of September 2026. Because of the timeframe and deliverables required (i.e. results for samples and need for someone to be in charge of equipment), the individual must have sufficient experience, competence, attention to detail, and communication skills to start generating results with consistently acceptable precision and accuracy.
Directions given and received: After conferring with the PI on project goals, the individual is expected to develop detailed plans to organize and conduct the work independently, conferring as necessary with the supervisor, to organize timelines to meet project deadlines. Keeps the P.I. informed of any problems and personnel needs, including that of other laboratory personnel, conferring as necessary but taking the lead in problem solving and supervision of analytical work in the laboratory. The initial project will be to set up an existing SOP and QC measures to analyze phytosterols in grain samples and begin assaying study sample within six weeks of the first day of employment, with minimal supervision and guidance, and achieving results with consistently acceptable accuracy and precision.
Required Qualifications
Preferred Qualifications
Overtime Status
Exempt: Not eligible for overtime
Appointment Type
Restricted
Salary Information
$60,000 - $70,000; commensurate with experience
Hours per week
40
Review Date
10/12/2026
Additional Information
The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.
About Virginia Tech
Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.
Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance. These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.
Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.
If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Dr. Katherine Phillips at kmpvpi@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.
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