Research Associate

Job Description

The successful candidate will support research endeavors to (1) assess biogeochemical transformations with bioretention media, (2) evaluate the role of dynamic wetting and drying patterns on organo-metal transformations, and (3) probe primary geochemical controls on organic matter and organo-metallic complex cycling. The incumbent will also develop, conduct, and assess a range of wet-chemical and spectroscopic geochemical methods for analysis of organo-metal geochemical systems in soils and water. Primary duties will include: (1) design, implementation, and data collection for laboratory column and field mesocosm bioretention system experiments, including analysis of bioretention leachate using TOC, ICP-MS, CNS, and UV-VIS instruments as well as a suite of chemical characterization approaches (pH, electrical conductivity, total elemental digestion) (2) data management for laboratory column and field mesocosm bioretention system experiments using SigmaPlot software. (3) method development, experimental design, data collection, and data management for new experiments focused on advanced approaches for measurement of metal and metalloid (e.g., arsenic, copper, lead, iron, aluminum, and manganese) interactions with organic matter, including use of exchange resins, dialysis experiments, adsorption studies, and liquid- and solid-phase organic carbon characterization; (4) training and mentorship of undergraduate research assistants; (5) contributions to data analysis, synthesis, and visualization across all project areas; and (6) contributions to regular functions of the School of Plant and Environmental Sciences Soil and Water Lab, including maintenance of a safe working environment and chemical safety and disposal.

Required Qualifications

M.S. degree in Geology, Geochemistry, Biogeochemistry, or closely related fields; Research expertise in environmental metal and organo-metallic complex chemistry; Analytical expertise in metal (including trace and contaminant) quantification; Demonstrated experience in data archive management; Demonstrated experience in and commitment to training and mentorship of undergraduate researchers; Excellent communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

Demonstrated experience in bioretention material analysis and assessment; Demonstrated experience in laboratory-scale leachate column experiments; Experience in ICP-MS instrumentation; Experience in dissolved organic carbon characterization (total DOC, UV-VIS, liquid chromatography) instrumentation; Experience in using SigmaPlot software

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

52,500 - 61,500

Review Date

05/21/2023

Additional Information

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges , a school of medicine , a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School , and Honors College . The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including the Innovation Campus in Northern Virginia; the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke; sites in Newport News and Richmond; and numerous Extension offices and research centers . A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $500 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Dr. Angela Possinger at arp264@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.

Advertised: April 28, 2023
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