Postdoctoral Researcher, Chromatographic and Mass Spectrometry Method Development

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

About the role

The candidate will assist in designing and conducting experiments using various mass spectrometry techniques for current OAL projects. They will also develop methods for quantifying MNP and other emerging pollutants in environmental and biological matrices. The role includes applying for internal and external funding and assisting in writing grant applications. The position is based at DRI’s Reno, Nevada campus.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute experiments using gas and liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (QQQ, QTOF, IM-HRMS).
• Develop advanced analytical methods for quantifying micro- and nano-plastics and emerging pollutants in environmental and biological samples.
• Operate, calibrate, troubleshoot, and maintain mass spectrometry instruments.
• Process and interpret data using software such as MassHunter.
• Apply for internal and external funding and assist in writing grant applications.
• Publish research results in peer-reviewed literature.
• Travel to meetings, workshops, and conferences; conduct field measurements and site visits as required.

Requirements

• 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 Chromatography-MS, Liquid Chromatography-MS (QQQ, QTOF), or Ion Mobility-High Resolution Mass Spectrometry (IM-HRMS).
• Proficiency in data processing software (e.g., MassHunter).
• Experience with operation, calibration, troubleshooting, and maintenance of MS instruments.
• Experience with 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 publish research in peer-reviewed literature.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with MRM/SRM techniques.
• Laboratory research experience with biological matrices (e.g., saliva, urine, stool, plant tissue).
• Experience with Python.
• Experience writing successful grant applications.

Physical Requirements

• Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally to lift, carry, push, pull, or move objects.
• Sedentary work involving sitting most of the time, with occasional walking or standing.

Career Progression

Postdoctoral researchers hired from this posting may be eligible for promotion to Assistant Research Professor upon successful completion of their postdoc. DAS will support the incumbent in developing their own research program, including serving as a PI on research grants and collaborating with colleagues across DRI and other institutions. Promotion is contingent on demonstrating the ability to develop and sustain independent funding. DRI faculty are supported through competitive grants and contracts, with access to administrative support and an entrepreneurial funding model.