Chemist Postdoctoral Research Opportunity

Organization
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
Reference Code
ARS-DWMRU-2016-0056-04
How to Apply

A complete application package consists of:

  • An application
  • Transcript(s) – For this opportunity, an unofficial transcript or copy of the student academic records printed by the applicant or by academic advisors from internal institution systems may be submitted.  Selected candidate must provide proof of completion of the degree before the appointment can start.  Proof must be sent to ORISE directly from the academic institution including graduation date and degree awarded.  All transcripts must be in English or include an official English translation.
  • A current resume/CV

If you have questions, send an email to USDA-ARS@orau.org.  Please include the reference code for this opportunity in your email.

Description

A chemist postdoctoral research opportunity is available with the Delta Water Management Research Unit (DWMRU) in Jonesboro, Arkansas.

 

Incumbent will support the development of water research laboratory and conduct water quality measurements using standard and modified methods. This includes but is not limited to:  design and perform chemical analyses for major nutrients in soil and water samples, compare modified methods with the gold standards to suit research needs and objectives, facilitate the procurement of laboratory consumables and equipment, conduct quality assurance and quality control, document and update laboratory and field procedures and modifications according to standard chemical and physical guidelines, assist in the collection of field samples and processing for chemical analysis, provide technical support to students/staff in the research unit, employ good housekeeping, materials safety precaution and procedures, and analyze laboratory and field data.

The appointment is full-time for one year and may be renewed based upon recommendation of the ARS and availability of funding.  The selected applicant will receive a stipend as support for their living and other expenses during this appointment.  Stipend rates are determined by ARS officials, and are based on the applicant’s academic and professional background.  The participant must show proof of health and medical insurance.  Health insurance can be obtained through ORISE.  The participant will not enter into an employee/employer relationship with ORISE, ORAU, USDA, ARS, or any other office or agency.  Instead, the participant will be affiliated with ORISE for the administration of the appointment through the ORISE appointment letter and Terms of Appointment.

While participants will not enter into an employment relationship with ARS, this position requires a pre-employment check and a full background investigation.

This opportunity is available to U.S. citizens, Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR), and foreign nationals.  Non-U.S. citizen applicants should refer to the Guidelines for Non-U.S. Citizens Details page of the program website for information about the valid immigration statuses that are acceptable for program participation.

This is an equal opportunity program open to all qualified individuals without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, mental or physical disability, covered veteran’s status or genetic information. 

For more information about the ARS Research Participation Program, please visit the Program Website.

Qualifications

To be eligible, applicants must have received a doctorate degree in Environmental Sciences, Chemical Engineering, Soil Science, or a related field within five years of the desired starting date.  Complexity of the research requires the incumbent to possess knowledge, skill and experience in the study of water quality in agricultural field. Experience with the laboratory chemical analysis of nutrients and sediments in soil, plant and water samples, use and maintenance of instruments such as spectrophotometers, portable meters, magnetic stirrers, Kjeldahl digestion system is highly desirable. The ideal candidate will also be proficient in SAS software, graphics software and MS Excel.  The incumbent must have the ability to successfully interact with a variety of people, train staff in the use of wet lab accordingly and accomplish tasks in a timely, within budget and safe manner.

Eligibility Requirements
  • Degree: Doctoral Degree.
  • Discipline(s):
    • Chemistry and Materials Sciences (7 )
    • Earth and Geosciences (5 )
    • Engineering (4 )
    • Environmental and Marine Sciences (6 )
    • Life Health and Medical Sciences (10 )
    • Mathematics and Statistics (2 )
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