Associate Research Scientist

Texas A&M University; College Station (TX); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Paid holidays

Vacation leave

Retirement plan

LinkedIn Learning

Tuition assistance

Job summary

Texas A&M University in College Station seeks an Associate Research Scientist to lead the Radiogenic Isotope Geosciences Laboratory, ensuring safe operation and quality data. You will train users, develop analytical methods, and support a range of geochemical analyses.

The ideal candidate holds a PhD in geology/oceanography/chemistry or related field, with 3+ years of experience in inorganic geochemistry and clean lab protocols. Strong communication and organizational skills are essential.

Qualifications

• PhD in geology, oceanography, chemistry, or related field.
• At least 3 years of related research experience.
• Experience with inorganic geochemistry and clean laboratory protocols.
• Proficiency with mass spectrometers and associated software.
• Strong communication and organizational skills; able to train users.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations and maintenance of the Radiogenic Isotope Geosciences Laboratory.
• Train and support laboratory users, including students and researchers.
• Provide analytical support and develop new laboratory methods.
• Perform analyses, ensure data quality, and report results.
• Manage invoicing, procurement, and contribute to facility growth.

Skills

English communication

Detail oriented

Organizational skills

Independent work

Multi-tasking

Education

PhD in geology/oceanography/chemistry or related

Tools

Mass spectrometry software

Job description

Job TitleAssociate Research Scientist Agency Texas A&M University Department Geology Proposed Minimum SalaryCommensurate Job LocationCollege Station, Texas Job TypeStaff

Job Description Here’s a Glimpse of the Job Texas A&M University invites applications for an Associate Research Scientist to oversee the daily operations, maintenance, user support, and continued development of the R. Ken Williams ’45 Radiogenic Isotope Geosciences Laboratory, a premier College of Arts and Sciences research facility. The ideal candidate will possess demonstrated experience operating, maintaining, troubleshooting, and developing analytical methods using advanced geochemical instrumentation, including ICP-MS, MC-ICP-MS, TIMS, HR-ICP-MS, and/or laser ablation systems. The Associate Research Scientist will also be responsible for ensuring the safe, efficient, and effective operation of the facility’s clean laboratory environment and analytical capabilities. They will provide technical expertise in radiogenic isotope geochemistry, inorganic geochemistry, clean laboratory protocols, instrument maintenance and optimization, method development, data quality assurance, and reporting. They will support faculty, students, postdoctoral researchers, visiting scientists, and external users through training, analytical support, and oversight of laboratory operations.

Opportunities to Contribute

• Conducts routine preventive maintenance and troubleshooting of laboratory equipment and instrumentation.
• Trains and supports laboratory users, including students, research assistants, postdoctoral researchers, and visiting scientists.
• Provides technical support for research activities involving laboratory equipment, instrumentation, and sample analysis.
• Assists in the development and implementation of new laboratory methods and analytical procedures.
• Performs sample analyses for external users, including data quality assurance, data analysis, and reporting of results.
• Oversees day-to-day facility operations, ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the laboratory, including invoicing and procurement of laboratory supplies.
• Contributes to facility design and renovation projects, website maintenance, strategic planning, and long-term growth initiatives.

Qualifications

• PhD degree in geology, oceanography, chemistry, or a closely related discipline
• Three years of related experience in a specialized and relevant field of research.
• Ability to move light office materials (up to 50 lbs.)
• Sit or stand for extended periods at a workstation.
• A well-qualified candidate for this position will also possess: At least 3 years’ related experience with inorganic geochemistry, clean laboratory protocols, and instrumentation housed within the Radiogenic Laboratory.
• Technical understanding of operation and maintenance of the mass spectrometers and their software used in the Radiogenic Laboratory.
• Demonstrated proficiency with laboratory and hardware tools.
• Ability to effectively communicate with faculty, staff, and students.
• Detail-oriented and have strong organizational skills.
• Independent and self-reliant and have excellent English written and verbal communication skills.
• Able to multi-task and work cooperatively and respectfully with others.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.

Salary: Compensation will be commensurate based on the selected candidate's education and experience. Please note: This position is grant funded; future employment may be contingent upon future funding.

Why Texas A&M University?

Texas A&M University is dedicated to fostering a collaborative environment built on our Core Values: Respect, Excellence, Leadership, Loyalty, Integrity, and Selfless Service. Located in College Station, Texas, our vibrant university community offers world‑class athletics, cultural events, state‑of‑the‑art recreation, and the George H. W. Bush Library—all with a high quality of life, low cost of living, and easy commutes.

Comprehensive Benefits and Perks

• Medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, life and AD&D, flexible spending accounts, and long-term disability insurance with Texas A&M contributing to employee health and basic life premiums
• 12-15 days of annual paid holidays
• Up to eight hours of paid sick leaveand at leasteight hours of paid vacationeach month
• Automatic enrollment in theTeacher Retirement System of Texas
• Health and Wellness: Free exercise programs and release time
• Professional Development: All employees have access to freeLinkedIn Learningtraining, webinars, and limited financial support to attend conferences, workshops, and more
• Educational release time and tuition assistancefor completing a degree while a Texas A&M employee
• Living Well, a program at Texas A&M that has been built by employees, for employees

All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution’s verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution’s procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.

Howdy and thank you for your interest in a career with Texas A&M University. As the flagship campus of The Texas A&M University System, we are located in College Station, Texas with a student population of more than 74,000 and nearly 14,000 faculty and staff. The Spirit of Aggieland is unmistakable. We are a unique American institution, fostering a culture of friendliness, compassion and respect for one another. Our unique history and rich traditions make Texas A&M special. From our benefits package and professional development opportunities to our retirement programs, Texas A&M is a great place to work. Your path to a great career starts here!

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.