Food Analysis Chemist: GC/HPLC & Method Validation

Virginia Tech; Blacksburg (VA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Virginia Tech in Blacksburg seeks an experienced analyst to lead quantitative nutrient analyses in foods using GC and HPLC. The role includes maintaining instruments, developing and validating SOPs, and guiding junior staff on sample preparation and data quality.

The candidate will work with the PI to organize timelines and deliver high-accuracy study results for sponsored research. Strong experience in GC/HPLC, QC, data analysis, and effective communication is essential.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree or bachelor’s with a minimum of 3-years post-degree experience in chemistry, biology, biochemistry, food chemistry, or a closely related field.
• Extensive hands-on experience with gas chromatography, liquid chromatography, and automated chromatography software for quantitative analysis of components in biological materials, preferably nutrients in foods.
• Experience with a variety of analytical techniques and equipment, including lipid extraction, solid phase extraction, gravimetric analysis.
• Experience and competence in performing routine maintenance and troubleshooting of GC and HPLC systems.
• Experience in all steps of quantitative analysis of food samples for organic nutrients particularly lipids.
• Demonstrated understanding of quality control and method validation criteria and ability to consistently produce data with accuracy and precision.
• Competence in statistical analysis of data and use of Microsoft Excel for analysis and presentation of data.
• Knowledge of and experience in application of quality control/quality assurance in quality control/quality assurance of quantitative analytical chemistry processes and data.
• Experienced with Standard Operating Procedures (writing, implementation) and documentation.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently to organize work to meet project timelines.
• Ability to communicate effectively with the P.I. to discuss ideas, plans, and results.
• Effective communication skills.
• Organized, with attention to detail in documentation and analytical rigor.
• Ability to lift and move equipment over 25 pounds.
• Ability to work with hazardous materials, and standing, walking, stooping and bending for long periods.

Responsibilities

• Set up and validate assay methods starting from established SOPs for analyses not currently run (phytosterols, fatty acids, vitamins) and adapt for study samples.
• Analyze samples with HPLC and GC while maintaining two HPLC and two GC instruments, troubleshooting as needed.
• Maintain and operate sample preparation equipment and assist with food sample prep and control materials.
• Provide technical expertise to junior staff and assist PI with publications and timelines.
• Develop detailed work plans and timelines in coordination with the PI to meet project deadlines.
• Lead problem solving and supervisor duties in analytical work within the lab.

Skills

Gas chromatography

Liquid chromatography

SOP writing

Data analysis (Excel)

Statistical analysis

Independent work

Communication skills

Problem solving

Equipment troubleshooting

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor's degree + 3+ years experience

Master’s degree in chemistry/biochemistry/food chemistry

Tools

Gas chromatography (GC)

Liquid chromatography (HPLC)

GC-MS

Chromatography software

Solid phase extraction

Gravimetric analysis

Job description

Virginia Tech in Blacksburg seeks an experienced analyst to lead quantitative nutrient analyses in foods using GC and HPLC. The role includes maintaining instruments, developing and validating SOPs, and guiding junior staff on sample preparation and data quality.

The candidate will work with the PI to organize timelines and deliver high-accuracy study results for sponsored research. Strong experience in GC/HPLC, QC, data analysis, and effective communication is essential.