Research Associate-Fixed Term

Position Summary

The Michigan State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory in East Lansing, MI is offering a post-doctoral position in analytical toxicology. The program provides interested PhD-trained scientists with an opportunity to collaborate with veterinary diagnosticians in both the Endocrinology and Nutrition / Toxicology services to advance the analytical scope of testing to enhance existing biomarkers and explore novel biomarkers of disease.  We are seeking an individual with:

• Experience in analytical techniques including liquid and gas chromatography coupled with single and triple quadrupole mass spectrometry to detect targeted and untargeted analytes.
• Collaborative approaches to formulating a project with a team of scientists.
• An ability to evaluate diagnostic approaches with the expectation that the selected candidate will be able to scientifically and creatively resolve analytical challenges independently.
• An understanding that tests will be fully validated in accordance with accrediting body and industry standards and that these developments will be shared and reported with college faculty and at national conferences.
• Good record keeping skills, and
• An expectation to become familiar with routine handling and maintenance of diagnostic equipment.

The goals of the program are to produce well-trained, analytical scientists who function effectively in a variety of capacities to ensure human, animal, and environmental safety and who are qualified to pursue careers in academia, industry, or government.

The current salary for the first year of the program is $61K with an incremental increase to $61.5K in year two. Continuation of the program each year is contingent upon mutual satisfaction of both the post-doctoral scientist and the faculty mentors. Additional benefits include fully paid health insurance and $1200 per year for travel/professional development. Qualified applicants will have a PhD in biochemistry, (organic or analytical) chemistry, medicinal chemistry, or equivalent degree, demonstrate a desire for a career in laboratory diagnostics and possess excellent interpersonal and communication skills. Selection of trainees will be based on prior academic performance and experience, career goals, and letters of recommendation.

MSU VDL is a full-service AAVLD-accredited veterinary diagnostic laboratory that includes microbiology sections (bacteriology, virology, immunoparasitology), pathology (necropsy, histopathology, and clinical pathology), endocrinology, toxicology, and nutrition. The VDL receives approximately 200,000 cases/year from food animals, companion animals, and wildlife/exotic species.

The College's vision is to be the destination for teaching, innovation, care, and service. Six goals, backed by specific strategies, guide our organization as we move forward. Read more at https://cvm.msu.edu/about/strategic-planning-2021-26/goals to learn about the MSU College of Veterinary Medicines goals, strategies and progress.

The College of Veterinary Medicine is committed to promoting the principles of equal opportunity and multiculturalism where all individuals are valued, respected, provided opportunity to flourish and open doors in their pursuit of excellence. We encourage and welcome our community to share ideas with us surrounding opportunities to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion.

The Michigan State University is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer.

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 Degree

Doctorate -biochemistry, (organic or analytical) chemistry, medicinal chemistry, or equivalent degree

Minimum Requirements

Qualified applicants will have a PhD in biochemistry, (organic or analytical) chemistry, medicinal chemistry, or equivalent degree, demonstrate a desire for a career in laboratory diagnostics and possess excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

Desired Qualifications

Candidates with the following background/experience are encouraged to apply:

· Hands-on experience with analytical instrumentation (HPLC, GC, MS) and MS databases

· Practical knowledge of method development and validation;

· Strong communication skills, including scientific writing and presentations;

· Ability to work both independently and in groups;

· Knowledge of laboratory accreditation, and analytical quality assurance.

· Good record keeping skills, and

· An expectation to become familiar with routine handling and maintenance of diagnostic equipment.

The ideal candidate:

· has a strong background in analytical chemistry with focus on small molecules at trace levels,

· has experience with the analysis of biological materials, food and/or feed,

· is ambitious and structured,

· has a high motivation for research excellence and a good command of written and spoken English,

· Is motivated by personal and team accomplishments, and

· thrives in an international environment.

Required Application Materials

Interested individuals must submit (1) a letter of intent stating interests and career goals, (2) a curriculum vitae, (3) complete transcripts from all universities/colleges and (4) a list of three references with e-mail and phone contact information

Special Instructions

Interested individuals must submit (1) a letter of intent stating interests and career goals, (2) a curriculum vitae, (3) complete transcripts from all universities/colleges and (4) a list of three references with e-mail and phone contact information

Review of Applications Begins On

01/13/2025

Summary of Health Risks

Exposure to unfixed animal tissue

Website

HTTPS://CVM.MSU.EDU/VDL

Department Statement

The VDL is a premier veterinary diagnostic laboratory for companion animals and horses as well as for livestock, laboratory, zoo, and wildlife species. The VDL performs more than one million tests per year on samples submitted from across the state of Michigan, the United States, and more than 25 countries. It has outstanding veterinary medical professionals and facilities and is world-renowned for expertise in endocrinology and cancer diagnostics.

MSU Statement

Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.