PhD Analytical Chemist – Mass Spectrometry Testing

GT Molecular; Fort Collins (CO); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Professional development support

Access to outdoor recreation

Job summary

A biotech company in Fort Collins is seeking a PhD-level Analytical Chemist to lead PFAS analysis in their Environmental Testing division. This hands-on role involves method development and high-throughput testing using state-of-the-art LC-MS/MS systems. Candidates should have over 3 years of experience in trace-level analysis and a strong background in mentoring. The position offers a competitive salary and a collaborative environment focused on meaningful scientific contributions.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of hands-on experience with LC-MS/MS for trace-level analysis.
• Experience supervising or mentoring junior staff.
• Proven expertise in sample preparation techniques.

Responsibilities

• Drive method development and routine high-throughput PFAS testing.
• Supervise and mentor research assistants/technicians.
• Maintain documentation and compliance with regulatory standards.

Skills

LC-MS/MS expertise

Sample preparation techniques

Data interpretation

Attention to detail

Problem-solving skills

Education

PhD in Analytical Chemistry or related field

Tools

MassHunter

Chromeleon

LC-MS/MS systems

ICP-MS

Job description

GT Molecular is a fast-growing biotech company translating rigorous science into practical solutions for environmental and public health challenges. We specialize in advanced molecular testing, including PFAS detection, metals analysis, and wastewater-based epidemiology. Our mission is to deliver defensible, high-throughput data that protects communities and ecosystems. Join a collaborative, mission-driven team in Fort Collins where your technical expertise directly impacts scalable environmental services.

Position Overview

We are seeking a PhD-level Analytical Chemist with deep expertise in PFAS analysis to serve as a technical lead in our expanding Environmental Testing division. This role is primarily hands-on: you will drive method development, validation, and routine high-throughput PFAS testing using state-of-the-art LC-MS/MS systems, while providing scientific guidance and day-to-day supervision to 1–2 research assistants/technicians. Expect ~70–80% bench time (sample prep through data reporting) and ~20–30% light leadership (training, workflow oversight, troubleshooting support). Ideal for a PhD who thrives at the bench but enjoys mentoring junior staff and owning analytical excellence in a regulated environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Development, optimization, and validation of PFAS analytical methods (targeted EPA 537.1, 1633, 533; non-targeted screening as needed) in complex environmental matrices (water, wastewater, soil, tissue).
• Perform routine high-throughput PFAS analysis using LC-MS/MS (triple quad and/or high-res), including sample extraction (SPE), instrumental analysis, QA/QC, data review, and defensible reporting.
• Operate, maintain, calibrate, and troubleshoot LC-MS/MS, ICP-MS (for metals co-analysis), IC, and supporting equipment; diagnose and resolve matrix effects, contamination, and performance issues.
• Design and execute experiments to address method challenges (e.g., recoveries in hydrophobic matrices, interferences, low-level detection).
• Supervise and mentor 1–2 research assistants/technicians: provide hands‑on training on protocols/instrumentation, review their work, assign daily tasks, ensure data integrity, and foster a culture of precision and safety.
• Contribute to SOP development, QA/QC programs, audit readiness (ISO 17025/NELAC alignment), and continuous improvement of laboratory workflows.
• Collaborate cross‑functionally with R&D, client services, and leadership to support custom projects, emerging contaminants, and business growth.
• Maintain meticulous documentation, chain‑of‑custody, and compliance with regulatory standards; generate technical reports and contribute to publications/presentations as appropriate.

Required Qualifications

• PhD in Analytical Chemistry, Environmental Chemistry, Geochemistry, or closely related field (or equivalent experience).
• 3+ years of hands‑on experience with LC-MS/MS for trace‑level analysis, preferably in PFAS or emerging contaminants (EPA methods 537/1633 experience strongly preferred).
• Proven expertise in sample preparation techniques (SPE, liquid‑liquid extraction) for environmental matrices and troubleshooting complex samples.
• Demonstrated ability to develop/validate analytical methods under QA/QC protocols.
• Experience supervising or mentoring junior staff (e.g., graduate students, technicians) in a lab setting.
• Proficiency with MassHunter, Chromeleon, or similar data systems; strong data interpretation and statistical skills.
• Excellent attention to detail, problem‑solving, and ability to work in a fast‑paced, high‑throughput environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Direct experience with EPA PFAS methods (537.1, 1633, 533) in accredited/commercial labs.
• Familiarity with ICP-MS for metals analysis, IC, or GC-MS for complementary contaminants.
• Knowledge of wastewater‑based epidemiology or related molecular testing.
• ISO 17025, NELAC/TNI, or cGMP exposure.
• Microbial testing experience (qPCR/dPCR/NGS preferred)
• Local to Northern Colorado (Fort Collins area) or willing to relocate.

What We Offer

• Opportunity to lead technically on cutting‑edge PFAS/environmental projects with direct mission impact.
• Collaborative environment with room for scientific innovation and growth.
• Competitive salary, benefits, and professional development support.
• Work in beautiful Fort Collins with access to outdoor recreation.

How to Apply

Please submit your resume, cover letter (highlighting PFAS/LC-MS/MS experience), and any relevant publications or method validation examples to [e-mail] with subject line: "PhD Analytical Chemist – PFAS – [Your Name]". We encourage applications from diverse backgrounds.

GT Molecular is an equal opportunity employer.