CFRE Research Technician

Lake Superior State University; Michigan; On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dedicated Research Technician to support vital field and lab research initiatives focused on freshwater ecosystems. This role involves leading research projects, overseeing student researchers, and conducting laboratory analyses to enhance understanding of aquatic environments. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in environmental science or a related field, and experience in analytical water chemistry. Join a collaborative team committed to advancing freshwater research and making a positive impact on the Great Lakes basin. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to significant scientific work while developing your skills in a supportive environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, chemistry, or aquatic ecology.
• 1+ years of experience in aquatic ecology projects.
• Familiarity with analytical equipment and QA/QC protocols.

Responsibilities

• Lead field and lab research projects related to freshwater science.
• Conduct standard laboratory water analyses and data entry.
• Assist with grant writing and outreach events.

Skills

Aquatic Ecology

Data Analysis

Laboratory Skills

Organizational Skills

Grant Writing

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Science

Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry

Bachelor's Degree in Aquatic Ecology

Tools

LC-MS/MS

Ion Chromatographs

Spectrophotometers

Statistical Software

Job description

FUNCTION

Under administrative direction of the Director of the Center for Freshwater Research and Education (CFRE) and reporting to the Assistant Director of Research, the Research Technician assists CFRE scientists on field and lab research activities related to CFRE’s mission. Research activities will be primarily focused on lab analyses related to projects in the Great Lakes basin that address fisheries management and ecology, river and wetland bioassessment, water quality, and molecular tools in freshwater science.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The Research Technician’s role will include, but not be limited to:

• Lead field and lab research projects as directed
• Provide daily oversight of student researchers at CFRE and those conducting lab research
• Process lab data, including eDNA analyses
• Conduct standard laboratory water analyses using discrete analyzers, LC-MS/MS, ion chromatographs, and spectrophotometers
• Oversee purchasing and installation of new analytical equipment
• Conduct data entry and QC
• Analyze data using statistical software and generate reports of results
• Maintain sample archives
• Maintain and repair equipment
• Oversee external sample workflow and invoicing
• Assist with purchasing of research supplies
• Write grants and/or acquire contracts to help sustain the position at CFRE
• Present at scientific conferences and attend professional development opportunities as available
• Assist CFRE staff and community partners with organizing and conducting outreach events (e.g., St. Marys River Day) as needed
• Assist with other lab or field tasks or processes as needed
• Assist with research report preparation and publications
• Assist with tracking and reporting on research activities and accomplishments annually
• Assist with other lab duties as assigned

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, chemistry, aquatic ecology or a related field
• At least 1 year of experience working on aquatic ecology projects
• Familiarity with standard analytical equipment and QA/QC protocols
• Demonstrate the potential ability to perform essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description
• Demonstrated strong organizational skills
• Valid driver’s license

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• At least 1 year of experience working in analytical water chemistry
• Demonstrated experience working with and supervising students
• Experience working in Great Lakes research