Part-Time Research Technician

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Summary/Objective

This position will support research projects in the Department of Chemistry specifically in the laboratory of Dr. Santiago Toledo in the area of synthetic bioinorganic chemistry. Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree in an experimental subfield of Chemistry or Biochemistry. Prior experience with using and handling laboratory equipment is necessary. The candidate will be expected to support the establishment of the lab, laboratory management, and ongoing research efforts. Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis starting August 15th 2022.

Essential Functions

1. Perform scientific research in Bioinorganic Chemistry synthesizing and characterizing model complexes of enzymes relevant to the research project.
2. Maintain and establish existing and new lab equipment.
3. Support with maintaining a lab inventory and help ordering supplies as well as contacting and maintaining communication with vendors.
4. Maintain and organize lab data for the purpose of using it in manuscript writing, and annual grant reports.
5. Assist with data analysis.
6. Assist with experiment design project planning.
7. Engage in regular group research meetings and assist with mentoring of student research group members.
8. Develop laboratory standard operating procedures and protocols for standard lab practices.
9. Assist with report and manuscript writing, including generating appropriate figures.
10. Additional responsibilities as necessary to support currently and future funded grants.

Supervisory Responsibility

Direct supervision is from Dr. Santiago Toledo, associate professor of Chemistry at American University.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

• Part-Time, 25 hours/week.
• Generally, the hours for this position are flexible with a total not to exceed 25 hrs/week.
• The candidate must be flexible to meet the research needs.
• This is a 12 month-ongoing, Part-Time, this position is not benefits eligible.

Required Education and Experience

• At least a Bachelor of Science degree in an experimental subfield of Chemistry or Biochemistry required.
• Prior experience operating laboratory equipment required.
• Skills with chemistry specific software (e.g Chemdraw, NMR processing software), as well as word processing software and spreadsheet software required.
• Prior experience with the synthesis and characterization of organic and inorganic compounds required.

Additional Eligibility Qualifications

• The expectations listed below are representative of the abilities that may be needed to fulfill duties of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Physical strength/endurance to enable the candidate to perform/participate in the following activities:
• Physically able to lift various materials up to 50 pounds on an occasional basis.
• While performing required job tasks, physically able to bend, crouch and reach continuously.
• While performing required job tasks, physically able to use arms, hands, fingers, eyes, legs, and back constantly.
• While performing required job tasks, physically able to remain seated, frequently to continuously.
• While performing required job tasks, physically able to remain standing up to 50% of the time.
• Possesses dexterity abilities required to operate a computer and other office and lab equipment to perform related job responsibilities.
• Hiring offers for this position are contingent on successful completion of a background check.
• To ensure the health and safety of our community AU requires COVID-19 vaccinations for faculty and staff. Click here to learn more about our health and safety directive .
• Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Others

Ability to handle highly confidential material, understanding that all University information should only be disclosed to others who have a need to know, for legitimate business reasons. Can exercise and apply sound judgment and decision-making skills as well as the ability to maintain integrity and confidentiality of data. Has working functional knowledge of Microsoft Office and Microsoft Suite software programs. Ability to quickly learn new technology and is self-motivated to stay current with emerging technologies. Ability to edit work for spelling and grammar, present numerical data effectively and can read and interpret written information to extent amounts. Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness and monitors own work to ensure quality. Adapt to change in the work environment, manage competing demands and able to deal with frequent change, delays or unexpected events. Ability to accept supervision, assignments, change and correction. Proven effectiveness in dealing with a wide range of professionals, staff, and administrators. Ability to balance priorities to accomplish assigned tasks within the required time frame and be able to shift quickly between several tasks without loss of continuity Ability to handle crisis situations in a calm and effective manner. Engage in meaningful and intentional professional development appropriate for areas of responsibility and actively engage in personal and campus well-being initiatives. Carry out all responsibilities and objectives in professional manner. Accept and render constructive criticism in a professional manner. The ability to develop knowledge of, respect for, and skills to engage with those of other cultures or backgrounds. Adhere to the policies and procedures established by American University and the College of Arts and Sciences.

Benefits

AU offers a competitive benefits package including a 200% matching retirement plan, tuition benefits for full-time staff and their families, several leadership development certificates, and has been recognized by the American Heart Association as a fit-friendly worksite.Click here to learn about American University's unique benefit options .

Current American University Employees

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Contact Us

For more information or assistance with the American University careers site, email theworkline@american.edu .

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