LA-ICP-MS Laboratory Scientist (laser-ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry)

University of Alaska; Fairbanks (AK); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Retirement benefits

Health insurance

Tuition waivers

Job summary

The Geophysical Institute at the University of Alaska Fairbanks seeks a Laboratory Scientist to establish and operate its LA-ICP-MS facility, including iCAP MS and laser-ablation systems. You will develop methods, train users, and deliver quality data for academic, government, and industry clients.

The role requires a Master’s in geoscience or related field and at least two years in LA-ICP-MS operations or equivalent, with a strong emphasis on analytical rigor and collaboration in a shared-use

Qualifications

• Master's degree in geoscience, geology, mineralogy, petrology, geochemistry, materials science, chemistry, or related field.
• Two (2) years of progressively responsible LA-ICP-MS operations or related experience, or equivalent.

Responsibilities

• Develop and validate analytical methods for isotopic and trace-element analyses.
• Conduct isotopic and trace-element analyses of geological materials.
• Evaluate and reduce analytical data and prepare high-quality data products for users.

Skills

LA-ICP-MS ops

Analytical geochemistry

Lab-method development

Quality documentation

Education

MSc in geoscience/chemistry

Tools

iCAP triple-quadrupole MS

laser-ablation system

Job description

The Geophysical Institute is a research-focused organization at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. The university offers a competitive work environment with strong benefits, including retirement and health insurance, generous leave policies, and tuition waivers for UAF courses. The Geophysical Institute values collaboration, accountability, and the exchange of ideas. We foster a professional and respectful environment dedicated to serving Alaska through applied science. Career growth and professional development are supported and encouraged.

As a public, regional, comprehensive university, UAF welcomes applications from individuals with a wide range of backgrounds and experiences.

The LA-ICP-MS Laboratory Scientist supports the establishment, operation, and continued development of the University of Alaska Fairbanks Geophysical Institute’s laser-ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry facility. The position provides specialized scientific and technical expertise in the commissioning, operation, maintenance, and optimization of the laboratory’s iCAP triple-quadrupole mass spectrometer and laser-ablation system.

The Laboratory Scientist develops and validates analytical methods; conducts isotopic and trace-element analyses of geological materials; evaluates and reduces analytical data; and prepares high-quality technical data products for academic, government, and industry users. The position trains laboratory users, maintains analytical and quality-assurance documentation, supports laboratory scheduling and service activities, and collaborates with faculty investigators and Alaska Critical Mineral Accelerator partners to develop new analytical capabilities that are responsive to research and industry needs.

To thrive in this position, the successful candidate will combine strong analytical-science expertise with the practical judgment required to establish and operate a sophisticated shared-use laboratory. The individual must be comfortable independently troubleshooting instrumentation, developing and validating analytical methods, evaluating complex scientific data, and communicating analytical limitations and results to users with varying levels of technical experience.

Success requires attention to detail, scientific integrity, sound documentation practices, and the ability to balance research innovation with reliable laboratory operations. The successful candidate will work effectively with faculty, students, technical personnel, industry representatives, government partners, equipment vendors, and administrative staff while managing multiple analytical priorities in a collaborative and evolving research environment.

Minimum Qualifications:

Master’s degree in geoscience, geology, mineralogy, petrology, geochemistry, materials science, chemistry, or a closely related field. Two (2) years of progressively responsible experience in LA-ICP-MS operations, analytical geochemistry, laboratory-method development, or management of a sophisticated analytical facility; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and relevant professional experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• PhD degree in a related field.
• Experience working in the mining sector, economic development, innovation ecosystems, research programs, or resource-based industries.
• Familiarity with NSF, federal grant reporting, or similar program requirements.

To be eligible for this position, applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without restriction. Applicants who now or may in the future require visa sponsorship to work in the United States are not eligible.

Position Details:

This position is full-time, Grade 80, term-funded, exempt, 12-month position complete with a competitive salary and UA employee benefits package. UA provides a generous compensation package that includes retirement options, annual leave, 12 paid holidays per year, tuition waivers for employees and family members, and affordable medical, dental, and vision care coverage. New hires will be placed on the UA staff salary schedule, based on education and experience.

We review applications on a rolling basis. Because we may close the posting once a sufficient pool of qualified candidates is established, we encourage early submission. Please note that once a viable pool is identified, further applications may not be reviewed.

This position is a term-funded position and is reviewed annually for contract renewal at the University's discretion.

The University of Alaska (UA) is responsible for providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities throughout the applicant screening process. If you need assistance in completing this application or during any phase of the interview process, please contact the ADA team at [e-mail].

The University of Alaska is an Equal Opportunity/Equal Access Employer and Educational Institution. The University is committed to a policy of non-discrimination against individuals on the basis of any legally protected status.

The successful applicant is required to complete a background check. Any offer of employment is contingent on the background check.

Your application for employment with the University of Alaska is subject to public disclosure under the Alaska Public Records Act.

The University of Alaska reserves the right to require employees to work on-site at University of Alaska facilities. Remote work may be approved for employees based in Alaska at the discretion of the University. Remote work for employees based outside the State of Alaska may be approved only in exceptional circumstances or where required by the job duties of the position.

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Access to the reports is available at:

UAA

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UAF

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UAS

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