Analytical Chemistry Associate Researcher

National Institute of Standards and Technology; Gaithersburg, Northern (MD, KY); Hybrid; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in Gaithersburg, MD, invites applications for an Analytical Chemistry Associate Researcher. The role supports SRM and related research by performing sample dissolution, preparation, and INAA analyses with state-of-the-art instrumentation.

Responsibilities include developing analytical methods for elemental quantification of electronic scrap and data analysis for INAA.

Qualifications

• At least 5 years of experience performing Instrumental Neutron Activation Analysis (INAA) in a nuclear facility.
• Comfortable performing acid dissolutions using strong acids (HNO3, HCl, HF).
• Experience with ISO 17034 guidelines is desirable.
• Proficient in MS Office suite.

Responsibilities

• Develop analytical methods for elemental quantification of electronic scrap.
• Data analysis and sample preparation for INAA.

Skills

INAA experience

Acid dissolution

Teamwork

Safety conscious

Tools

Genie 2000

HyperLab

Gamma-spectroscopy software

MS Office

Job description

Analytical Chemistry Associate Researcher

The Material Measurement Laboratory of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is seeking qualified persons (U.S. citizens preferred) to perform sample dissolution, preparation, and neutron activation analyses supporting NIST’s standard reference material (SRM) mission and other critical research areas requiring neutron activation methods. The candidate will work alongside NIST scientists to develop new SRMs to meet the need of U.S. stakeholders and develop procedures to measure the elemental composition of research projects, such as measurements of electronic scrap to further enhance U.S. domestic supply of critical minerals. The candidate will work with a variety of samples and have the ability to enhance their analytical chemistry skillset using state-of-the-art equipment and a diverse set of analytical techniques.

Duties

• Develop analytical method for elemental quantification of electronic scrap
• Data analysis and sample preparation for Instrumental Neutron Activation Analysis (INAA)

Required Skills, Expertise, and Qualifications

• At least 5 years of experience working at a nuclear facility performing INAA
• Comfortable performing acid dissolutions using strong acids such as HNO3, HCl, and HF

Other Desirable Qualifications

• Experience working in a lab/facility following ISO 17034 guidelines
• Proficient in MS office suite
• Proficient in gamma-spectroscopy software, such as Genie 2000 and Hyperlab
• Safety conscious
• Works well independently and in a team setting

Employment Terms

This opportunity is to be an associate researcher in the NIST Chemical Sciences Division for a term of 1 year, with options to renew. Associate researchers are NOT Federal Employees, but they work along with NIST researchers and with NIST’s world-class instrumentation. Relocation expenses will not be provided. U.S. citizens hired into associate positions may have the opportunity to seek longer term Federal Employment.

An Associate at NIST is not a federal employee but collaborates with NIST on research projects of mutual interest and does not work exclusively on NIST mission-related activities. If you have any questions, please contact the International and Academic Affairs Office at [e-mail] .