Careers @ MSU

Working/Functional Title

Research Analytical Chemist II

Position Summary

Michigan State University (MSU) operates the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB) as a user facility for the U.S. Department of Energy Office of Science (DOE-SC), supporting the mission of the DOE-SC Office of Nuclear Physics. FRIB provides researchers with one of the most advanced tools of modern science to study rare isotopes, or short-lived nuclei not normally found on Earth. Hosting what is designed to be the most powerful heavy-ion accelerator, FRIB enables scientists to make discoveries about the properties of rare isotopes, nuclear astrophysics, fundamental interactions, and applications for society, including in medicine, homeland security, and industry. User facility operation is supported by the DOE-SC Office of Nuclear Physics as one of 28 DOE-SC user facilities. MSU’s nuclear physics graduate program is a top-ranked program nationally, according to U.S. News & World Report.

This position affords an exciting opportunity to become part of the world-class FRIB Laboratory that enables unique discovery opportunities in nuclear science.

Purpose: 

The Research Analytical Chemist II – Isotope Harvesting Program will be responsible for supporting the implementation of operation and automation procedures for isotope harvesting, quality control, and radiochemical separation/purification processes.

Major Duties/Responsibilities: 

• Operate and maintain hot cells, fluidic systems, and purification systems, as well as perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting of these equipment to ensure optimal performance and result accuracy. 
• Write, review, update, and implement QA/QC Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) under the guidance of the operations lead. Execute QA SOPs for routine radionuclide production to ensure product quality and regulatory compliance. 
• Prepare samples for analysis with proper labeling, documentation, and adherence to safety protocols. Maintain accurate records of experiments, procedures, and results in accordance with regulatory requirements and good laboratory practices. 
• Perform a wide range of QA/QC tests using established protocols for radionuclide production. Operate, calibrate, and maintain analytical instruments, including radio-TLC, ICP-MS/OES, alpha/gamma spectrometers, liquid scintillation counters, acid purification systems, and general chemistry lab equipment. Additionally, perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting of laboratory equipment to ensure optimal performance and result accuracy. 
• Interpret test results, identify trends, and provide summaries or reports to the R&D team focusing on accuracy and precision. Additionally, improve and update production protocols with guidance from the R&D team, and collaborate with scientists and researchers to develop and validate analytical methods and procedures. 
• Ensure product shipping complies with regulatory requirements and good laboratory practices. 
• Compiles and summarizes results and participates in preparing reports, manuscripts and articles for publication. 
• Oversees QA/QC needs and orders required materials, supplies and equipment. 
• Researches literature in order to maintain a current knowledge of laboratory research methods and terminology. 
• Performs duties normally associated with a Research Assistant I in order to complete research projects. 
•  Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties in this job classification. 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 

• Strong willingness to learn and apply skills learned on the job in utilizing telemanipulators, specialized hot cell functioning, and essential QA/QC procedures related to radionuclide production.
• Ability to work independently and demonstrate wise judgment based on facts.
• Excellent communication skills to communicate effectively and credibly, both verbally and in writing with all audiences.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suites.
• Strong knowledge of analytical and radioanalytical chemistry principles, laboratory techniques, and safety protocols.
• Hands-on experience operating and troubleshooting analytical instruments, radio-TLC, ICP-MS/ OES, alpha/ gamma spectrometers, liquid scintillation counters, acid purification systems, and general chemistry lab equipment.
• Demonstrated knowledge of method development, validation, and quality control procedures in analytical chemistry.
• Sophisticated in data analysis using software or tools such as Excel, statistical software, or chromatography data systems.
• Excellent attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Ability to effectively collaborate with team members.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and the capacity to adapt to changing priorities and project requirements.
• Thorough knowledge of laboratory safety procedures, hazardous waste management, and regulatory compliance.
• Continuous learning mindset to stay updated with the latest advancements in analytical chemistry techniques and technologies.

Unit Specific Education/Experience/Skills

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in the specific field of research employment or related science field; three to five years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in overseeing research projects and laboratory operations, operating and maintaining a variety of laboratory equipment, performing specialized and difficult analytical and research techniques, and designing research experiments in an area related to research being performed; may require software specific to the area of research; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. The position may require special licensing or certification in the field related to the area of employment.

• A degree in Radiochemistry or Nuclear Chemistry or closely related field such as inorganic chemistry, analytical chemistry, hydrometallurgy, separation chemistry, or a related field of research employment or related science field.

Desired Qualifications

• Advanced degree
• Have knowledge/ experience with the following:
  • Proficiency in operating the hot cells and remote handling.
  • Radioactive material handling.
  • Radiochemical separations (ion exchange, extraction chromatography, electrochemical, solvent extraction).
  • Working in a radiochemistry laboratory.
  • Automated fluidic systems.

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 and resume. 

Work Hours

STANDARD 8-5

Website

frib.msu.edu

Bidding eligibility ends April 23, 2024 at 11:55 P.M.