Research Scientist (Analytical Chemist – PFAS Analysis)

Worcester Polytechnic Institute - WPI; Massachusetts; On-site; USD 77,000 - 94,000; Full time

Job summary

Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) is seeking an Analytical Chemist with PFAS expertise to support multidisciplinary research on PFAS destruction and remediation technologies. You will develop analytical methods, generate defensible data, and collaborate with engineers and environmental scientists.

The ideal candidate holds a PhD with a minimum of 3 years post-graduate experience and has PFAS LC-QTOF experience, strong QA/QC, and excellent written and verbal communication skills for reporting

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry, Environmental Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of post-graduate professional experience.
• Demonstrated experience with PFAS analysis, including LC-QTOF and related analytical techniques.
• Strong understanding of QA/QC principles and a commitment to the highest standards of data quality and integrity.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within multidisciplinary teams.

Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and perform PFAS analytical methods for a variety of matrices.
• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot analytical instrumentation.
• Analyze and interpret complex datasets and prepare technical reports and presentations.
• Ensure analytical results meet rigorous quality assurance and quality control requirements.
• Collaborate with engineers, chemists, and environmental scientists to evaluate PFAS destruction technologies and treatment processes.
• Communicate technical findings clearly to project teams, sponsors, and stakeholders.

Skills

analytical communication skills

independent work

multidisciplinary collaboration

Education

PhD in Analytical Chemistry, Environmental Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field

Job description

Research Scientist (Analytical Chemist – PFAS Analysis)

Worcester

Department

Chemical Engineering - NFR JM

Division

Worcester Polytechnic Institute - WPI

Job Description Summary

We are seeking an Analytical Chemist with expertise in PFAS analysis to support a multidisciplinary team developing and evaluating technologies for PFAS destruction and remediation. The successful candidate will contribute analytical expertise to characterize PFAS compounds, assess treatment performance, and generate high-quality, defensible data to support research and development efforts.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry, Environmental Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of post-graduate professional experience.
• Demonstrated experience with PFAS analysis, including LC-QTOF and related analytical techniques.
• Strong understanding of QA/QC principles and a commitment to the highest standards of data quality and integrity.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within multidisciplinary teams.

Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and perform PFAS analytical methods for a variety of matrices.
• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot analytical instrumentation.
• Analyze and interpret complex datasets and prepare technical reports and presentations.
• Ensure analytical results meet rigorous quality assurance and quality control requirements.
• Collaborate with engineers, chemists, and environmental scientists to evaluate PFAS destruction technologies and treatment processes.
• Communicate technical findings clearly to project teams, sponsors, and stakeholders.

The ideal candidate is a highly organized and self-directed scientist who combines deep PFAS analytical expertise with exceptional attention to detail and a passion for advancing technologies that address PFAS contamination.

Compensation

Salary: $85,000 per year. Salary is based on related experience, expertise, and internal equity. WPI’s benefits package includes a robust retirement match, wellness perks, tuition assistance and more!

FLSA Status

United States of America (Exempt)

Equal Opportunity Employer and Diversity Statement

WPI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability. It seeks individuals from all backgrounds and experiences who will contribute to a culture of creativity, collaboration, inclusion, problem solving, innovation, high performance, and change making. It is committed to maintaining a campus environment free of harassment and discrimination.

About WPI

Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) is a vibrant and diverse community of extraordinary students, talented and dedicated staff, and world-renowned faculty. Along with its state-of-the-art research facilities, WPI offers competitive and comprehensive employee benefit programs, including paid time off, health insurance, life and long-term disability insurance, retirement savings plans, tuition assistance, flexible spending accounts, and a working environment that prioritizes mental health and well-being. It is a community committed to civility and respect—making inclusion and belonging a reality for everyone on its campus.