Research Technologist I

Position Summary

The W.K. Kellogg Biological Station's Long-Term Agroecosystem Research (LTAR) Program is seeking an experienced research technician to perform lab analyses, field sampling, and related activities.

About the Role

The Kellogg Biological Station is located 10 miles northeast of Kalamazoo, Michigan, midway between Detroit and Chicago and about 1.25 hours southwest of the main MSU campus in East Lansing. Fifteen resident faculty and a number of postdoctoral researchers, graduate students, and research technicians contribute to the Station's year-round research program. The LTAR Program at KBS has been in place for 5 years; core long-term funding is provided by USDA. Further information about the KBS LTAR Program is available at http://ltar.kbs.msu.edu and about KBS is available at http://kbs.msu.edu.

Responsibilities

• Conduct laboratory analyses including but not limited to flow spectrophotometry, gas and combustion chromatography.
• Prepare reagents and materials for laboratory procedures.
• Maintain laboratory equipment for daily use, troubleshooting as necessary.
• Conduct field sampling for soil, gas, water and plant analyses.
• Document and maintain chemical safety records, act as a resource for other staff regarding laboratory chemical safety procedures.
• Order necessary laboratory and field supplies in a timely manner.
• Instruct temporary staff in the performance of basic laboratory functions.
• Analyze data and assist in the compilation of results for principle investigators.
• Daily communication with supervisor for project goal instructions, analysis timetable and productivity development.
• Interact with staff to discuss procedures, exchange information while assisting them with field and laboratory operations.
• Interact with graduate students to share information regarding policy, laboratory procedures and equipment.
• Interact with faculty, staff, and supervisor to discuss protocol, report results and productivity development.
• Interact with vendors to discuss and order necessary supplies for lab and field.
• Work with temporary staff in the field and the laboratory.
• Ensure proper storage, handling and disposal of hazardous waste in compliance with MSU EHS regulations.
• Maintain the integrity of all samples, analyses and data as to not adversely affect the objectives of the research project.
• Maintain daily log of field and lab activities.

Qualifications

• Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in Environmental Science, Plant and Soil Sciences, Environmental Chemistry or other related field; up to six months of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in basic research techniques in the specific or related field; word processing, spreadsheet; database and/or desktop publishing software; presentation software; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• A BS or BA in environmental science, plant and soil sciences, environmental chemistry, or a related field.
• Experience as a technician in a research laboratory, and a demonstrated ability to perform laboratory analyeses.
• Experience conducting gas chromatography, flow spectrophotometry, and other types of analyses is desirable.

Desired Qualifications

• Contributing to a team-oriented atmosphere throughout the year is an essential component of this position.

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 Application Materials

• Resume and cover letter.