Associate Research Scientist, IIHR

The University of Iowa; Iowa City (IA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Iowa invites applications for the Associate Research Scientist, IIHR, to advance the Iowa INSIGHT program focused on environmental monitoring and biomonitoring. Based in Iowa City, you will lead design, method development, data analysis, and manuscript preparation, collaborating with CHEEC and CHEE teams.

The role requires a Ph.D., at least three years postdoc-level experience, strong LC-MS/MS expertise, QA/QC, and a track record of publications.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Environmental Health, or related field.
• At least three years of experience at a Postdoctoral Scholar level or above.
• Significant expertise in method development for analysis of environmental samples including water, air, and biospecimens.
• Experience with LC-MS/MS analysis of environmental and/or biospecimen samples.
• Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals.

Responsibilities

• Initiate research design and methodology; originate design and coordination; manage laboratory equipment; develop testable hypotheses.
• Operate and maintain instrumentation for analysis of environmental and biological samples.
• Perform advanced data analysis and develop new data analysis applications.
• Develop methods for analysis of complex environmental samples (water, air, biospecimens).
• Prepare first-author manuscripts and contribute to public data archives or online tools.
• Prepare and submit publications in peer-reviewed journals.
• Serve as PI or co-PI; contribute to proposals and funding reports; select and purchase equipment.
• Draft grant proposals in environmental health and seek leadership opportunities.
• Mentor graduate students and supervise staff; provide direction and feedback.

Skills

Postdoctoral experience

LC-MS/MS

Data analysis

QA/QC standards

Publication record

Instrumentation maintenance

Grant proposals

Mentor students

Education

Ph.D. in Chemistry, Civil & Environmental Engineering, Environmental Health, or related field

Tools

LC-MS/MS instruments

Field sampling equipment

Job description

The Associate Research Scientist, IIHR will contribute to the research mission of IIHR—Hydroscience and Engineering and the Center for Health Effects of Environmental Contamination (CHEEC) by supporting the newly launched Iowa Integrated Network for Science, Information, and Geospatial Health Tracking (Iowa INSIGHT), a first-of-its-kind initiative dedicated to understanding how Iowa’s environment is impacting the health of its people made possible through the generous support of the Kyle J. and Sharon Krause Family Foundation. Iowa INSIGHT is a statewide initiative that will produce scientific evidence needed to understand how environmental exposures affect human health — from the air Iowans breathe to the water they drink. The program will work to identify environmental factors contributing to Iowa’s high cancer rates and other adverse health problems, including maternal and newborn health, reproductive health, and neurodevelopmental disorders. The Associate Research Scientists will lead research initiatives centered on environmental monitoring and biomonitoring, while contributing to a vibrant team of researchers at CHEEC that includes research staff, as well as graduate and undergraduate student researchers.

This is a specified term position.

This position is not eligible for University sponsorship for employment authorization.

Key Responsibilities

• Initiate research design and methodology. Originate design, research conduct, and coordination. Maintain laboratory equipment as needed. Develop hypotheses to be tested and select methodology. Work independently on complex research tasks with oversight by Faculty or Principal Investigator.
• Provide routine operation and maintenance of instrumentation involved in the analysis of environmental and biological samples.
• Perform advanced data analysis techniques. Develop new applications of existing data analysis techniques.
• Develop methods for analysis of complex environmental samples, including water, air and heterogeneous media, and/or biospecimen samples (e.g., whole blood, serum, urine, breast milk).
• Prepare and submit first author manuscripts for publication. Demonstrate strong publication record. May contribute to public data archives or other resources; e.g., software, models, or on-line tools to support scientific research.
• Prepare and submit publications (e.g., lead and/or corresponding author) in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
• Serve as PI or co-PI, contribute to research proposals and funding agency reports. May write research proposal to obtain independent funding as PI. Select and purchase equipment as needed.
• Draft and/or contribute to original grant proposals in environmental health.
• Seek leadership opportunities appropriate to the scientific discipline, which may include serving on proposal review panels. May serve on departmental or University committees. May organize outreach efforts in alliance with funding sources. Serve as a session chair or organize sessions at professional meetings.
• Mentor graduate students. May provide functional and/ or administrative supervision for staff. Provide direction, assignments, feedback, coaching and counseling to assure outcomes are achieved.

About the College of Engineering

The College of Engineering at the University of Iowa is driven by talented faculty, staff, and students who are dedicated to producing knowledge that addresses grand challenges in advanced technologies, health sciences, sustainability, energy, and the environment. We pride ourselves on producing ethical, globally aware engineers whose work makes the world safer and more efficient. As a center of innovation and discovery, the College of Engineering is committed to improving the quality of life for our Iowa community, as well as for people across the United States and around the world.

We uphold the values of respect, community, and collaboration in all our endeavors, fostering a welcoming and respectful environment where members are valued and supported. Joining our team means becoming part of a supportive environment that values work-life balance and personal well-being. The University of Iowa offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health and wellness resources, dual career support, and opportunities for professional development. Learn more about working at the University of Iowa: Build A Career/Build a Life.

Education Requirement

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Environmental Health, or related fields.

Required Qualifications

• At least three years of experience at a Postdoctoral Scholar level or above.
• Prior experience and significant expertise in method development for analysis of complex environmental samples, including water, air and heterogeneous media, and/or biospecimen samples (e.g., whole blood, serum, urine, breast milk).
• Prior experience and significant expertise with analysis of environmental and/or biospecimen samples via liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS).
• Demonstrated expertise in the routine operation and maintenance of instrumentation involved in the analysis of environmental and biological samples.
• Prior experience in developing and maintaining appropriate QA/QC standards and protocols associated with laboratory analysis of environmental and biological standards.
• Prior experience managing complex data flows, including translating data into reports that can be shared with diverse stakeholder groups.
• Demonstrated effective oral and written communication skills, including a strong record of publication (e.g., lead and/or corresponding author) in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
• A valid driver's license and continued compliance with the standards of the University Driving Policy (University of Iowa Operations Manual Part V, Chapter 19).
• Demonstrated commitment to fostering a welcoming and respectful workplace environment.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience with the design and implementation of field sampling campaigns for collection of complex environmental samples across a range of matrices (e.g., soil, water, sediment).
• Experience drafting and/or contributing to original grant proposals in environmental health.

In order to be considered for an interview, applicants must upload:

• Resume

Job openings are posted for a minimum of 7 calendar days. This job may be removed from posting and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended. Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check and credential/education verification.5 professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process.

Benefits Highlights

• Regular salaried position. Pay level 6A. Located in Iowa City, Iowa.
• Fringe benefit package including paid vacation; sick leave; health, dental, life and disability insurance options; and generous employer contributions into retirement plans.

Joining the University of Iowa means becoming a vital part of the Hawkeye community, where your work directly impacts education, research, and student success. Enjoy exceptional health coverage, university-paid life insurance, robust retirement plans, and generous leave policies. Benefit from 24/7 support services, well-being resources, and access to UI Health Care specialists. Grow professionally with advanced training, leadership development, and tuition assistance. Iowa City offers a great quality of life with world‑class performances at Hancher Auditorium, Big Ten athletics, top‑ranked public schools, and outdoor recreation. Join us in making a difference at a leading Big Ten university and premier public research institution.

Additional Information

• Classification Title: Assoc Research Scientist/Engin
• Appointment Type: Professional and Scientific
• Schedule: Full-time
• Work Modality Options: On Campus

Compensation

Contact Information

• Organization: College of Engineering
• Contact Name: Alex Schutman

Equal opportunity employer

The University of Iowa is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment free from discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, pregnancy (including childbirth and related conditions), disability, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, service in the U.S. military, sexual orientation, or associational preferences.

Persons with disabilities who need assistance or accommodations with the application or interview process may contact University Human Resources/Faculty and Staff Disability Services, [phone] or [e-mail] . For jobs in UI Health care, please contact UI Health care Leave & Disability Administration at 319-356-7543 .

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