Analytical Chemist - Illinois Fire Service Institute

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign; Urbana (IL); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is seeking an analytical chemist to develop and validate methods for detecting chemical compounds in biological matrices and research samples. The role involves performing chromatographic and mass spectrometry analyses, preparing samples, and maintaining instruments and documentation to ensure high-quality results.

The position emphasizes collaboration with investigators, adherence to SOPs and QA/QC, and contribution to scientific manuscripts and grant

Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, validate, and implement analytical methods for detection and quantification of compounds in biological matrices and other samples.
• Perform qualitative and quantitative analyses using HPLC, LC-MS/MS, GC-MS, and ICP-MS as appropriate to research objectives.
• Prepare and process biological samples with extraction and cleanup procedures.
• Operate, maintain, troubleshoot, and optimize analytical instruments and software for reliable performance.

Job description

Duties & Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, validate, and implement analytical methods for the detection and quantification of chemical compounds in biological matrices and other research samples.
• Perform qualitative and quantitative analyses using chromatographic and mass spectrometry techniques, including HPLC, LC-MS/MS, GC-MS, and ICP-MS, as appropriate to the research objectives.
• Prepare and process biological and other research samples using appropriate extraction, cleanup, and analytical procedures.
• Operate, maintain, troubleshoot, and optimize analytical instruments and associated software to ensure reliable performance and high-quality analytical results.
• Process, analyze, interpret, and document analytical data, including implementation of appropriate quality assurance and quality control procedures.
• Develop and maintain standard operating procedures, analytical protocols, laboratory documentation, and quality control records.
• Collaborate with investigators and research staff on experimental design, analytical strategies, data interpretation, and the integration of analytical findings into research outcomes.
• Contribute to the preparation of scientific manuscripts, conference presentations, technical reports, and research summaries.
• Assist with the development of research proposals, identification of funding opportunities, and preparation of grant applications to support IFSI's analytical chemistry and first-responder health research programs.
• Support research activities involving human participants and biological specimens, including sample collection and processing, as needed and in accordance with approved protocols and applicable institutional requirements.
• Maintain laboratory operations, including inventory management, procurement of supplies, equipment coordination, and implementation of appropriate laboratory safety practices.
• Coordinate with instrument manufacturers, service engineers, and technical specialists regarding instrument maintenance, troubleshooting, and performance optimization.
• Participate in interdisciplinary research meetings and academic and community events as an IFSI representative.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.