Postdoctoral Researcher, Chromatographic and Mass Spectrometry Method Development

Postdoctoral Researcher

The Organic Analytical Laboratory (OAL) in the Division of Atmospheric Sciences (DAS) of the Desert Research Institute (DRI) is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to conduct environmental science research using chromatography - mass spectrometry techniques. OAL is conducting research on characterization of wildfire smoke, micro- and nano-plastics (MNP), and emerging pollutant (e.g., PFAS). The laboratory is equipped with multiple GC/MSs and UPLC/QQQ MSs, a UPLC/QTOF MS, and a UPLC-IM-HRMS.

The candidate will assist with designing and conducting experiments using various mass spectrometry analysis techniques for the current OAL projects. The candidate will also develop methods involving advanced analytical techniques for quantification of MNP and other emerging pollutants in environmental and biological matrixes. The candidate will be expected to apply for funding (both internal and external) and assist in writing grant applications. The position is located at DRI's Reno, Nevada campus.

Required Qualifications:

• Ph.D. from an accredited institution in Analytical Chemistry, Mass Spectrometry, or a related field.
• Hands-on experience with one or more of the following: Gas and Liquid Chromatography coupled to Triple Quadrupole (QQQ), Quadrupole-Time-of-Flight (QTOF) mass spectrometry, and Ion Mobility High Resolution Mass Spectrometry (IM-HRMS).
• Knowledge of data processing software, such as MassHunter.
• Proven experience with operation, calibration, troubleshooting, and maintenance of MS instruments and interpretation of data.
• Demonstrated proficiency in standard wet chemistry sample extraction and cleanup techniques.
• Ability to independently design and execute experiments to solve unique problems.
• Excellent English-language communication skills (oral and written).
• Demonstrated ability to perform research and publish results in peer-reviewed literature

Preferred Qualifications:

Greater consideration will be given to those who possess the following skills and attributes:

• Experience with MRM/SRM, IM-HRMS
• Laboratory research experience in working with biological matrixes (e.g., saliva, urine, stool, plant tissue, etc.)
• Experience with Python
• Experience writing successful grant applications

Conditions of Employment:

• Some travel expected for meetings, workshops, and conferences
• Visits to field sites and conduction of field measurements may be required

Physical Requirements:

Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally and/or a negligible amount of force frequently to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move object. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time.

Organizational Summary:

DRI is a recognized world leader in basic and applied environmental research. Committed to scientific excellence and integrity, DRI faculty, students/postdocs who work alongside them, and staff have developed scientific knowledge and innovative technologies in research projects around the globe.

Since 1959, DRI's research has advanced scientific knowledge on topics ranging from humans' impact on the environment to the environment's effect on humans. DRI's cutting-edge science and inspiring solutions support Nevada's diverse economy, provide science-based educational opportunities, and inform policymakers, business leaders, and community members. With campuses in Las Vegas and Reno, DRI serves as the non-profit research arm of the Nevada System of Higher Education.

DRI Promotion and Career Progression:

DAS postdoctoral researchers hired from this posting may be eligible for promotion to regular faculty (Assistant Research Professor) upon the successful completion of their postdoc. To support the postdoc in working towards this goal, DAS will provide support for the incumbent to begin to develop their own research program as a postdoc. DRI postdocs are eligible to serve as PIs on research grants, and the incumbent will be encouraged to collaborate with colleagues across DRI and at other institutions. The incumbent will also have the opportunity to participate in both formal and informal early career mentoring programs provided by DRI Human Resources. Promotion from Postdoctoral Researcher to Assistant Research Professor can occur when the Postdoctoral Researcher demonstrates the ability to develop and sustain their own funding.

DRI faculty are supported through competitive grants and contracts with external funding agencies, and faculty therefore have access to considerable administrative support and an Institute-wide entrepreneurial approach to maintaining success in developing funding programs. DRI has been successful in using this model to create scientific breakthroughs and applied science solutions to some of the most challenging problems facing the nation and the world for over 60 years. DRI is a research-focused institution and teaching and advising of graduate students is not required but is possible through the Graduate Schools at the University of Nevada, Reno and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

Exempt Yes Full-Time Equivalent 100.0%Required Attachment(s)

Please upload the following documents in the specified section on DRI's career page:

• A cover letter detailing how your education and experience address the required qualifications and prepare you to contribute to DRI,
• A current curriculum vita,
• Contact information for three professional references who will be contacted at the appropriate phase of the recruitment process following applicant consent.

Qualified individuals are encouraged to apply immediately to receive full consideration. This posting will remain open until the position is filled, but hiring may occur at any time. Recruitment will close without notice when a hiring decision has been made.