Careers @ MSU

Position Summary(Basic Job Function)

This is a temporary or an on-call position. Provides professional support. Responsibilities may include general business, science, medical, agricultural or other professional support functions. Term: Temps can work two (2) nine (9) month terms with a week break in service in between and at the end of the second term terminate for three (3) months or switch to an on-call. On-Call allowed to work 1039 hours in any twelve (12) month period.

Unit Position Summary

The successful candidate will work closely with colleagues within MSU St. Andrews to aid in contract chemistry fee for service organic and synthetic chemistry. This position offers in office work experience at the facility in Midland and the opportunity for the successful candidate to:

Conduct Research: 

• Carry out laboratory research and fee-for service activities under authorized and signed R&D contracts with external customers 

• Develop methods of chemical and physical analysis as needed by external customers to support project goals 

• Interact with external customers using either online or in person meetings as desired by external customers to set, modify, and carry out project goals  

• Maintain confidentiality of R&D information that is owned by external customers 

• Maintain familiarity with the scientific literature that is pertinent to work covered under R&D contracts – carry out regular literature searches to enhance knowledge that will maximize benefit to external customers as well as to MSU 

• Document laboratory results and maintain a detailed professional laboratory notebook in clearly written reports as required by external customers to summarize and communicate R&D results 

• Direct the activities of laboratory technicians as needed, providing coaching and mentoring to new young researchers who will assist with contract R&D duties 

• When allowed under terms of R&D contracts, publish novel results in peer-reviewed journals to enhance the reputation of MSU as a teaching and research institution  

• Submit invention disclosures to MSU Technologies as needed

Interaction with St. Andrews Facility & Community:

• Participate actively in MSU St Andrews laboratory and building safety activities – promote an overall atmosphere of safe working conditions and a “safety first” mindset 

• Participate actively in weekly MSU St Andrews staff meetings, either online or in person  

• Ensure MSU St Andrews laboratory and analytical equipment is maintained in top working order with regular maintenance activities 

• Be available for teaching MSU lecture or lab courses as may be occasionally requested 

STEM Education Programs:

• Design and develop novel R&D projects for the summer high school internship program at MSU St Andrews, during years when this program is authorized and funded 

• Actively direct, coach, and mentor summer internship students in the context of an active research program 

• Write letters of recommendation for student interns as requested 

Minimum Requirements:  

PhD in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Physics, Chemical Engineering and related fields, or a career history that would create knowledge equivalent to that such a PhD.  A strong ability to communicate scientific results to sponsors of funded programs, and a track record of managing project timelines and deliverables.  A willingness to engage in STEM education, mentoring high school aged students in the laboratory, and teaching the fundamentals of a lab-based STEM career.   

Desired Qualifications

A career history in a chemistry, pharmaceutical or similar company, particularly in the development of translatable and practical manufacturing processes.  A history of teaching at any level, but particularly desirable to have a history of teaching youth. 

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

Resume

Cover letter

Work Hours

STANDARD 8-5

Website

https://standrews.msu.edu/about/

Summary of Health Risks

Prepares equipment for chemical processes by utilizing appropriate cleaning methods, moving raw materials, moving waste for appropriate disposal. This position involves routinely working with chemicals and the use of appropriate PPE.