Research Associate/Fellow

Auburn; Auburn (AL); On-site; USD 55,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous benefits

Educational opportunities

Work-life balance

Southern hospitality

Job summary

Auburn University’s College of Agriculture seeks a Research Associate/Fellow for a two-year limited term with responsibilities across ICP-MS, GC, HPLC, XRD, FTIR analyses. The role emphasizes QA/QC, safety, and data integrity in a dynamic laboratory setting.

The position progresses from Associate I to Fellow III levels, with education requirements ranging from Master's to Ph.D. and experience in analytical/environmental labs. Substitutions allowed for education in lieu of experience.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in chemistry, analytical chemistry, or closely related field (Associate ranks may apply).
• Ph.D. in chemistry, analytical chemistry, or closely related field for Fellow II/III levels.

Responsibilities

• Sample collection, preparation, and processing for ICP-MS, GC, HPLC, IC, XRD, and FTIR analyses.
• Operate, calibrate, and maintain analytical instruments; perform routine and preventive maintenance.
• Interpret data, record results accurately, and generate comprehensive QA/QC reports.
• Follow standardized protocols and safety regulations (EPA guidelines).
• Troubleshoot instrument issues and assist in method development and validation.
• Maintain thorough documentation and collaborate with team members.

Skills

ICP-MS operation

GC

HPLC

FTIR

XRD

QA/QC procedures

Education

Master’s degree in Chemistry

Ph.D. in Chemistry

Tools

ICP-MS instruments

GC instruments

HPLC systems

IC instrumentation

Job description

Overview

The College of Agriculture at Auburn University is excited to begin its search for a Research Associate/Fellow!

The individual selected for this position will be responsible for the preparation and analysis of various samples (e.g., water, soil, manure) using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS), Gas Chromatography (GC), and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), XRD, and FTIR. The primary goal is to ensure accurate and reliable data generation in compliance with all quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) procedures and safety regulations. This is a two-year limited term position and is funded from external sources. Continuation of employment is contingent upon availability of funds.

Responsibilities

• Sample Management: Collect (if required), prepare, and process a variety of samples for analysis using appropriate extraction and digestion techniques.
• Instrument Operation: Operate, calibrate, and perform routine and preventive maintenance on ICP-MS, GC, HPLC, IC, XRD, and FTIR instruments, as well as other general laboratory equipment.
• Data Analysis and Reporting: Interpret test data, record results accurately, and generate comprehensive reports.
• Quality Control & Compliance: Follow standardized protocols, perform quality control checks, and adhere to all health, safety, and regulatory guidelines (e.g., EPA guidelines).
• Troubleshooting: Identify and resolve technical issues with instrumentation and analytical procedures, potentially assisting in the development and validation of new methods.
• Collaboration and Documentation: Maintain accurate documentation, including daily logs and equipment record books, and collaborate effectively with other technicians, chemists, and quality assurance teams.
• Lab Maintenance: Ensure a clean, safe, and organized laboratory environment, including proper handling and disposal of chemical waste.

Qualifications

Research Associate I:

• Master’s degree from an accredited institution in chemistry, analytical chemistry, or closely related field; no experience required.

Research Associate II:

• Master’s degree from an accredited institution in chemistry, analytical chemistry, or closely related field and 2 years of experience working in an analytical or environmental laboratory setting, with hands-on experience operating GC, HPLC, IC, FTIR, XRD, and ICP-Ms instruments.

Research Associate III:

• Master’s degree from an accredited institution in chemistry, analytical chemistry, or closely related field and 4 years of experience working in an analytical or environmental laboratory setting, with hands-on experience operating GC, HPLC, IC, FTIR, XRD, and ICP-Ms instruments.

Research Fellow I:

• Ph.D. from an accredited institution in chemistry, analytical chemistry, or closely related field; no experience required.

Research Fellow II:

• Ph.D. from an accredited institution in chemistry, analytical chemistry, or closely related field and 2 years of experience working in an analytical or environmental laboratory setting, with hands-on experience operating GC, HPLC, IC, FTIR, XRD, and ICP-Ms instruments.

SUBSTITUTIONS ALLOWED FOR EXPERIENCE: Yes, When a candidate has the required education, but lacks the required experience, they may normally apply additional appropriate education toward the experience requirement, at a rate of one (1) year relevant education per year of required experience.

Contract Type

Limited Term

Why Work at Auburn?

• Life-Changing Impact: Our work changes lives through research, instruction, and outreach, making a lasting impact on our students, our communities, and the world.
• Culture of Excellence:We are committed to leveraging our strengths, resources, collaboration, and innovation as a top employer in higher education.
• We’re Here for You:Auburn offers generous benefits, educational opportunities, and a culture of support and work/life balance.
• Sweet Home Alabama:The Auburn/Opelika area offers southern charm, vibrant downtown scenes, top-ranked schools, and easy access to Atlanta, Birmingham, and the Gulf of Mexico beaches.
• A Place for Everyone: Auburn is committed to fostering an environment where all faculty, staff, and students are welcomed, valued, respected, and engaged.
• Ready to lead and shape the future of higher education? Apply today! War Eagle!

Equal Opportunity Compliance Statement

It is our policy to provide equal employment and education opportunities for all individuals without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other classification protected by applicable law. Please visit the Office of Equal Opportunity Compliance's website to learn more.

Posted Date

10/2/2026