Sr Laboratory Specialist Sr Laboratory Specialist

Department 00106 – Geology & Geophysics Job Summary

The Microbial Isotope Geochemistry & Geomicrobiology laboratory studies the signatures of microbial metabolism recorded in molecules and their isotopic compositions. These include Bacterial and Archaea metabolic products, cellular lipids, and the isotopic compositions of the biologically made or manipulated molecules. The lab and field work spans a range of projects that involve the isotopic characterization of molecules produced and consumed by certain Archaea and Bacteria (e.g. CH4, N2O, certain lipids), the cultivation of (an)aerobic and (auto/hetero/mixo)-trophic bacteria and archaea, as well as the geochemistry and microbiology of hypersaline environments, hydrothermal systems, and geological energy storage systems.

Our laboratory is seeking a Sr. Laboratory Specialist (job code:0486) to independently conduct experiments as defined in the research plans of Lab, and to serve on a research team involved in the investigation of multiple research projects. This person will both independently conduct and analyze experiments related to defined research projects, collaboratively support ongoing research, and oversee general lab operations including instrument maintenance, inventory management, and safety compliance. The candidate will have proficiency in geomicrobiology laboratory techniques, and analytical geochemistry. The candidate will lead batch and continuous (chemostat) culturing experiments, has a general interest in geomicrobiology and energy metabolism in the Earth system, and will assist with preparation of samples for stable isotope measurements. Time management, flexibility, and organization are important for this position.

Responsibilities

CORE DUTIES:

• Oversee lab safety compliance including hazardous chemical waste management.
• Oversee and ensure ongoing operations of all laboratory equipment, including contact and coordination with service personnel as necessary; Maintain records and equipment performance and maintenance.
• Orienting new lab members and overseeing lab and data management.
• Manage all purchasing and receiving to maintain laboratory supply inventories.
• Manage lab and sample shipping and moving of samples and equipment.
• Provide training of facility equipment to all users and serve as resource for any user problems or assistance with experimental protocols.
• Perform lab administrative tasks related to finance documentation, sample shipping, and quarterly scheduling.
• Help orient and train staff and students.
• Plan and perform continuous culturing experiments in support of research projects in lab based on knowledge of scientific theory. Interpret and perform basic analyses of results.
• Assist lab members in planning and performance of: batch and continuous Archaeal and Bacterial culturing, both aerobic and anaerobic, metabolite and biomass sampling and preservation, and metabolite analysis.
• Review literature on an ongoing basis to remain current with new procedures and related research.
• Participate in updating and improving procedures and protocols in collaboration with undergraduate, graduate, and post-doctoral individuals.
• Maintain detailed and organized records of experiments and outcomes in electronic lab notebooks.
• Contribute to publication of findings as needed. Participate in the preparation of written documents, including procedures, presentations, and proposals upon request.
• Other duties may also be assigned.

Physical Requirements*:

• Frequently stand, walk, twist, bend, stoop, squat, grasp lightly, use fine manipulation, grasp forcefully, perform desk-based computer tasks, use telephone, write by hand, lift, carry, push and pull objects weighing over 40 pounds.
• Occasionally sit, kneel, crawl, reach and work above shoulders, sort and file paperwork
• Ability to bend, squat, kneel, stand, reach above shoulder level, and move on hard surfaces for up to eight hours
• Ability to lift heavy objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Position may require repetitive motion
• Consistent with its obligations under the law, the College will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in an appropriate scientific discipline or equivalency (one year of education can be substituted for two years of related work experience), plus four years of related full-time laboratory experience required. Demonstrated human relations and effective communication skills also required.

Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.

Preferences

Education & Experience: Master’s Degree in related field and 4+ years relevant laboratory and project experience.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Experience and demonstrated excellence in lab and field management and logistics.
• Ability to be both a positive team leader and team member.
• Experience in providing instruction in use of laboratory equipment.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, responsible for assigned outcomes.
• Excellent verbal and written communication abilities
• Ability to multi-task and maintain laboratory in professional manner.
• Strong computer skills, including experience with word-processing, database/ Google-Suite and other relevant programs; R and Python a plus, but not required.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multi-disciplinary and multi-user research environment.
• Experience with implementation and enforcement of lab safety protocols.
• Occasional travel for conferences or work in collaborating labs is possible,
• Experience with (an)aerobic geomicrobiology cultivation techniques for stable isotope measurements.
• Familiarity with open-source geochemical modelling software, e.g. WORM portal and PyCHNOZ

Additional Information

The University is a participating employer with Utah Retirement Systems (“URS”). Eligible new hires with prior URS service, may elect to enroll in URS if they make the election before they become eligible for retirement (usually the first day of work). Contact Human Resources at (801) 581-7447 for information. Individuals who previously retired and are receiving monthly retirement benefits from URS are subject to URS’ post-retirement rules and restrictions. Please contact Utah Retirement Systems at (801) 366-7770 or (800) 695-4877 or University Human Resource Management at (801) 581-7447 if you have questions regarding the post-retirement rules.

This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug screen.

The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with students and patients from all backgrounds and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education and quality healthcare for historically underrepresented students and patients.

All qualified individuals are strongly encouraged to apply. Veterans’ preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities.

The University of Utah is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer and does not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information, or protected veteran’s status. The University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and 34 CFR part 106. The requirement not to discriminate in education programs or activities extends to admission and employment. Inquiries about the application of Title IX and its regulations may be referred to the Title IX Coordinator, to the Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, or both.

To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability or if you or someone you know has experienced discrimination or sexual misconduct including sexual harassment, you may contact the Director/Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action (OEO/AA). More information, including the Director/Title IX Coordinator’s office address, electronic mail address, and telephone number can be located at: https://www.utah.edu/nondiscrimination/

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