Analytical Chemist-Mass Spectrometry Post-Doctoral Research Opportunity

Organization
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
Reference Code
ARS-AMACRU-2015-0104
How to Apply

A complete application package consists of:

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

Description

An analytical mass spectrometry opportunity is available with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Research Service (ARS) Animal Metabolism-Agricultural Chemicals Research Unit (AMACRU) in Fargo, North Dakota.

Participant will perform quantitative and qualitative chemical analyses using high-resolution liquid and gas chromatography systems equipped with mass spectrometric detectors. Research includes devising and/or modifying chromatographic methods with mass-selective detection for analytes in complex matrices including foods, animal tissues (rodent, cattle, sheep, swine,poultry), animal excreta, and (or) animal waste streams. Maintains and calibrates chromatographic and mass spectrometric instrumentation to meet Quality Assurance and/or Quality Control Standards. Reviews data to ensure quality standards; reviews method performance; summarizes and reports data to scientific staff.  Provides written Standard Operating Procedures for chromatographic methods employing mass selective detection. Summarizes results of specific analyses or experiments, and provides assessments of data quality and data significance to the overall project. Participates in manuscript preparation through summarizing analytical methodology.

The appointment is full-time for one year. The selected applicant will receive an annual stipend of $48,403.  A stipend supplement in the amount of $10,211 is provided to offset the cost of anindividual or family health insurance plan.  A relocation travel allowance of $2,000 is provided to offset costs of relocation.  The participant must show proof of health and medical insurance. Health insurance can be obtained through ORISE.  The participant does not become an employee of ARS or ORISE.

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, sex, religion, national origin, mental or physical disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, or covered veteran’s status.

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 Analytical Chemistry, Chemistry, Analytical Pharmacology, Analytical Toxicology, Food Science, or an allied field in which quantitative and (or) qualitative mass spectrometry was critical to obtaining the awarded degree.

Experience with quantitative and/or qualitative gas chromatography (GC) and liquid chromatography (LC) with mass spectrometric detection is required.  Use of Waters and/or AB Sciex mass chromatographic detectors and/or software is desirable.

The ideal candidate will have:

  • Skills in calibrating, maintaining, and operating liquid and gas chromatographic instruments equipped with mass selective detection sufficient to independently perform measurements and analyses
  • Skills in obtaining accurate and valid results when analyzing and characterizing low level analytes within biological materials
  • Skills in evaluating established gas and liquid chromatographic MS and MS/MS methods and making proper modifications for specific applications
  • Ability to organize and record experimental data and write reports

Participant should be a highly motivated individual dedicated to working in an interdisciplinary environment which includes the food and animal sciences, analytical chemistry, and biochemistry. Candidates should have good communication skills and a strong desire to learn.

Eligibility Requirements
  • Degree: Doctoral Degree.
  • Discipline(s):
    • Chemistry and Materials Sciences (4 )
    • Environmental and Marine Sciences (2 )
    • Life Health and Medical Sciences (11 )
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