Open Rank Research Professor - Water Sciences Lab Director

Nebraska Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources; Lincoln (NE); On-site; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Nebraska Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources in Lincoln seeks an Open Rank Research Professor to lead the Water Sciences Lab. This role demands a Ph.D. and focuses on improving lab operations, fostering collaboration with stakeholders, and advancing environmental research. The ideal candidate will showcase a proven track record in research and analytical method development, along with strong communication and leadership skills. Competitive compensation and opportunities for ongoing research are available.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry, Engineering, Environmental, Geological, or Materials Science.
• Proven experience in scientific research and analytical methods.
• Strong publication record in relevant research.

Responsibilities

• Lead Water Sciences Laboratory activities and staff.
• Collaborate on research and enhance lab services.
• Prepare annual facility reports and ensure quality control.

Skills

Scientific research

Analytical methods development

Mass spectrometry operation

Team collaboration

Communication skills

Education

Ph.D. in relevant field

Job description

Position Information

Working Title: Open Rank Research Professor - Water Sciences Lab Director

Department: Water Center

Requisition Number: F_260016

Location: Lincoln, NE

Position: 12‑month non‑tenure track, renewable; 3‑5 year initial appointment. Reports to the Nebraska Water Center director. The incumbent will lead all Water Sciences Laboratory activities, supervising laboratory staff and supporting users in day‑to‑day facility operations. The role is affiliated with an academic unit in IANR to provide a pathway to promotion per UNL policies.

Responsibilities

• Demonstrate strong communication skills, vision, and leadership to further the WSL mission to provide advanced, high quality, defensible results for water and environmental research.
• Seek out and develop relationships with external stakeholders and faculty from the university system to support joint research and service projects, enhancing laboratory services to meet user requirements while implementing practical ways to maintain quality and improve operational efficiency.
• Actively collaborate on publications, contracts and grant opportunities, and work with the Nebraska Water Center staff to promote the facility to potential users on and off campus.
• Mentor laboratory users and staff to ensure timely processing of client samples, facilitate problem‑solving, and assist the laboratory manager in implementing a robust quality assurance program using a new laboratory information management system.
• Prepare annual facility reports to the Office of Research and Innovation integrating fiscal and technical input from an administrative advisory board, laboratory user group, and business office staff.

Minimum Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry, Engineering, Environmental, Geological, or Materials Science.
• Experience conducting scientific research, developing analytical or isotopic methods, operating and troubleshooting mass spectrometry‑based equipment.
• Track record of relevant research publications showcasing advanced analytical techniques.
• Specialty in environmental sciences, water quality, and/or analytical method development commensurate with a research assistant professor or higher.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience managing laboratory operations, quality assurance, planning, or project management.
• Proven ability to communicate and collaborate with faculty and stakeholders across multiple disciplines and organizations.

The University of Nebraska does not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation in its programs, activities, or employment. See https://equity.unl.edu/notice-nondiscrimination/.