Research Assistant I

MSU - Michigan State University; East Lansing, Northern (MI, KY); Hybrid; USD 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Michigan State University in East Lansing seeks a laboratory technician to support the Biomass Analytics Facility. You will plan, design, and conduct analyses of biomass feedstocks, including high-throughput and standard bioassays, and contribute to data interpretation and reporting.

The role requires at least one year of lab experience, an undergraduate degree in biochemistry, chemistry, biology, or plant science, and ability to work safely in a shared lab environment.

Qualifications

• Undergraduate degree in Biochemistry, Chemistry, Biology, Plant Science, or related field.
• At least one year of laboratory experience.
• Experience operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting analytical instrumentation (GC-MS, HPLC, Spectroscopy).
• Experience developing and generating protocols, reports, and data management documentation for data management (LIMS).

Responsibilities

• Perform biomass compositional analyses using routine wet chemistry techniques and automated systems.
• Generate high-quality analytical data and perform QC; maintain lab records and contribute to reports.
• Calibrate, troubleshoot, and maintain analytical instruments and automated systems.
• Coordinate workflows and maintain a safe, organized lab environment; manage supplies.
• Contribute to method development and optimization for biomass analytics.

Skills

Lab techniques

Data interpretation

Record keeping

Communication

Education

Undergraduate degree in Biochemistry/Chemistry/Biology/Plant Science

Equivalent combination of education and experience

Tools

GC-MS

HPLC

Spectroscopy

Job description

Position Summary

Project description

The Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center (GLBRC) is a U.S. Department of Energy-funded Bioenergy Research Center, led by the University of Wisconsin-Madison with Michigan State University as its principal partner. Within the GLBRC, the Biomass Analytics Facility (BAF) is one of the center’s Core Facilities and provides analytical services ranging from high-throughput digestibility screening to detailed cell wall compositional analysis of all biomass feedstocks. The GLBRC has been a leader in biofuel research, developing sustainable biofuels and bioproducts that are economically viable and environmentally sustainable. The GLBRC leverages its success on an outstanding combination of expertise and resources available across its member institutions.

Job responsibilities

We seek a motivated candidate to join our research team lab to contribute to a collaborative laboratory environment by planning, designing, and conducting experiments that support a broad range of research objectives. Key responsibilities include performing standard and high-throughput biomass composition and digestibility analyses; generating, compiling, analyzing, and interpreting experimental data; and maintaining accurate and organized records of laboratory activities and results. The candidate will communicate effectively with supervisors and researchers regarding project expectations, timelines, and analytical outcomes.

Additional duties include contributing to technical reports, scientific publications, and research manuscripts; participating in laboratory training activities; ensuring compliance with laboratory safety policies and procedures; maintaining and operating analytical instrumentation; and assisting with the supervision and review of work performed by trainees and student employees. The position also involves supporting the coordination of research projects and daily laboratory operations.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning and professional development, staying current with advances in biomass analytics and related methodologies. They will also play an active role in optimizing existing protocols and developing new analytical approaches to meet the evolving research needs of investigators within the Center.

The candidate will be responsible to

• Perform biomass compositional analyses using routine wet chemistry techniques and advanced laboratory instrumentation. Operate and maintain automated robotic systems for sample grinding, weighing, and liquid handling, as well as other analytical platforms, to support high-throughput biomass characterization efforts.
• Generate high-quality analytical data by conducting quality control (QC) procedures and validating experimental results. Maintain accurate and comprehensive laboratory records; compile, analyze, and summarize findings; communicate results and project updates through the Data Catalog and Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS); and contribute to technical reports, scientific manuscripts, and peer-reviewed publications. Provide guidance and review the work of student employees and trainees to ensure data quality and integrity.
• Calibrate, troubleshoot, and maintain a diverse suite of analytical instruments and automated laboratory systems, including robotic grinding, weighing, and liquid-handling platforms, HPLC, GC-MS, thermogravimetric analyzers, nitrogen analyzers, spectrometers, and related equipment. Coordinate with manufacturers’ technical support teams as needed to ensure optimal instrument performance and reliability.
• Support efficient laboratory operations by coordinating workflows with team members, maintaining a safe and organized work environment, preparing stock solutions and calibration standards, and managing laboratory supplies, consumables, and inventory.
• Contribute to the development and optimization of analytical methods and protocols to enhance facility capabilities. Stay current with emerging research, methodologies, and terminology in biomass composition analysis and apply this knowledge to improve laboratory processes and services.

Minimum Requirements

Required education

Equivalent of an undergraduate degree in Biochemistry, Chemistry, Biology, Plant Science, or related field. Or an equivalent combination of education and experience

Minimum work requirements

• At least one year of laboratory experience
• At least one year of experience operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting analytical instrumentation (e.g., GC-MS, HPLC, Spectroscopy)
• Experience using relevant analytical software and interpreting and QA/QC of data.
• Experience developing and generating protocols, reports, and other required documentation for data management (e.g., laboratory information management system)
• Or an equivalent combination of education and experience

Desired Qualifications

• Candidates with a relevant analytical chemistry lab and/or research experience in the field of biomass analytics and lignocellulosic feedstocks are preferred
• Familiarity with statistical data analysis
• Successful candidates will have some experience in instrumental analysis and demonstrate significant attention to detail
• Demonstrates clear record-keeping skills with special attention to data traceability
• Demonstrates superior oral and written communication skills
• Proficient, independent, and flexible individual who can manage multiple ongoing projects.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Application Materials

Please provide a cover letter describing your interest in and relevant skills for this position, a current resume, and the names and contact information for three references.

Special Instructions

This position is a support staff position and does not qualify for a US Work Visa. All applicants must be immediately eligible to work in the United States, without transferring a current work visa to MSU or requiring any MSU work visa sponsorship.

Work Hours

STANDARD 8-5

Description of End Date

This is an off-dated position funded until November 30, 2027, with possible extension contingent upon funding renewal.

Website

https://www.glbrc.org

Bidding eligibility ends October 13, 2026, 11:55 PM