Working/Functional Title

GLBRC BAF Research Assistant

Position Summary

The Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center (GLBRC) is a US Department of Energy-funded Bioenergy Research Center, led by the University of Wisconsin–Madison with Michigan State University as a principal partner. The GLBRC has been a leader in biofuel research, developing sustainable biofuels and bioproducts that are economically viable and environmentally sustainable. The GLBRC leverages its success on an outstanding combination of expertise and resources available across its member institutions. Within the GLBRC, the Biomass Analytical Facility (BAF) is one of the Core Facilities and provides analytical services ranging from high-throughput digestibility screening to detailed cell wall compositional analysis of all biomass feedstocks generated by the Center.

We seek a motivated candidate to join our lab to work as part of the team to plan, design, and conduct experiments to accommodate research needs; perform standard and HTP biomass composition and digestibility assays; generate data and compile, analyze, and summarize results; keep accurate records of all experiments, results, and other laboratory records; communicate concerns, expectations, turnaround times, etc. to supervisor and researchers; participate in reports and manuscripts for publications; participate in training and perform laboratory activities in compliance with laboratory safety regulations and procedures; maintain and operate analytical instruments; review work of trainees and student employees; and assist in coordinating research and other laboratory operations. The candidate is also expected to keep their knowledge and skills current and assist in optimizing and developing protocols to accommodate the evolving biomass analytics needs of the researchers in the Center.

Minimum Requirements

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in Biochemistry, Chemistry, Biology, Plant Science, or related field; one to three years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in standard laboratory procedures and safety requirements and performing analytical and research techniques in an area related to research being performed; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. 

Desired Qualifications

Highly prioritized qualifications:

• One to three years of laboratory experience
• One to three years of experience operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting analytical instrumentation (e.g., GC-MS, HPLC, Spectroscopy)
• Experience using relevant analytical software and interpreting and QA/QC of data.
• Experience developing and generating protocols, reports, and other required documentation for data management (e.g., laboratory information management system)
• Or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Experience using relevant analytical software and interpreting and QA/QC of data.
• Experience developing and generating protocols, reports, and other required documentation for data management (e.g., laboratory information management system)
• Or an equivalent combination of education and experience

Additional Desired Qualifications:

• Candidates with a relevant analytical chemistry lab and/or research experience in the field of biomass analytics and lignocellulosic feedstocks are preferred
• Familiarity with statistical data analysis
• Successful candidates will have some experience in instrumental analysis and demonstrate significant attention to detail
• Demonstrates clear record-keeping skills with special attention to data traceability
• Demonstrates superior oral and written communication skills
• Proficient, independent, and flexible individual who can manage multiple ongoing projects.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Application Materials

Please provide a cover letter describing your interest in and relevant skills for this position, a current resume, and the names and contact information for three references.

Special Instructions

Work Hours

STANDARD 8-5

Description of End Date

This is an off-dated position funded for one year from date of hire, with possible extension contingent upon funding renewal.

Website

https://www.glbrc.org/

Bidding eligibility ends September 17, 11:55 PM