TTU Post Doctoral Research Associate in Environmental Soil Chemistry

Major/Essential Functions

• The selected candidate will be responsible for conducting independent research, writing peer-reviewed scientific publications, writing grants, attending conferences, and contributing to meetings with stakeholders.
• Engage and organize research, sample, and data collection as required, collaborating with students, post docs and visiting scholars.

• A Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree in soil chemistry, geochemistry, environmental chemistry/engineering, or a closely related area is preferred.
• Performs skilled mechanical and/or analytical duties in the coordination and completion of projects. Work is performed under general guidelines using established procedures and evaluated on results obtained. May supervise subordinate employees. Adherence to robust safety practices and compliance with all applicable health and safety regulations are responsibilities of all employees.
• Experience in X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) is highly desired, especially shell-fitting of the Extended X-ray Absorption Fine Structure (EXAFS) spectra.
• Experience with sample preparation and analysis of FT-ICR-MS data
• Experience in Scanning Emission Microscopy and/or Transmission Microscopy.
• A strong background in soil or sediment geochemistry, as it relates to physical, chemical, spectroscopic, and spectrometric characterization of minerals and aqueous solutions.
• Experience and laboratory skills in dealing with analytical laboratory sample preparation and equipment operation, including microwave digestions, ICP-OES/MS, XRF, GC, IC, CNS analysis, or electrochemical techniques.
• The candidate should be familiar with the common wet-chemical techniques used in soil chemistry, such as batch and/or stirred-flow reactions.
• Evidence of ability to independently maintain equipment in different laboratories and ability to manage, plan, execute, operate and supervise minor fixes to equipment to ensure successful implementation of research objectives.
• Evidence of proven data analysis skills (e.g., trouble shooting), data maintenance, and data management.
• This position may require the individual to work outside in inclement weather, including hot summer days and cold winter days.
• Self-motivated, with excellent written and oral communication skills, management and organization skills, and the ability to work both individually and with a multi-faceted team of fellow researchers. The candidate must be able to establish and maintain positive and effective work relationships with other employees, supervisors, and the public.
• The candidate must be able to plan and allocate the workload of undergraduate researchers, providing direct training and supervision as needed.