Research Specialist - 530926

The University of Alabama; Tuscaloosa (AL); On-site; USD 49,000 - 61,000; Full time

Job summary

The Research Specialist at The University of Alabama in Geological Sciences works with departmental staff to design and conduct research projects and to support X-ray analytical workflows. The role manages X-ray laboratory operations, performs XRD/XRF analyses and sample prep, and trains faculty and students while coordinating safety, inventory, and purchasing under the lab supervisor.

Normal work schedule is Monday–Friday 8:00 am–5:00 pm, with a focus on collaboration, safety, and timely

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or higher required.
• Knowledge of X-ray diffraction and related analytical workflows, sample preparation, mineral/phase identification, laboratory safety and EHS practices.
• Familiarity with quantitative mineral analysis, Rietveld refinement, analytical software, and basic computer, purchasing, and inventory processes is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Design and conduct research projects with departmental staff.
• Manage X-ray laboratory operations and provide XRD/XRF analytical support and sample preparation.
• Train and support faculty, students, and other laboratory users.
• Coordinate laboratory safety, inventory, and purchasing.
• Work closely with the laboratory's faculty supervisor.

Skills

X-ray diffraction

Analytical workflows

Sample preparation

Laboratory safety

Inventory management

Training faculty and students

Rietveld refinement

Bruker XRD instrumentation

Education

Bachelor's degree or higher

Tools

Bruker XRD

XRD Commander

EVA

TOPAS

Job description

Pay Grade/Pay Range: Minimum: $49,100 - Midpoint: $61,400 (Salaried E7)

Department/Organization: 204441 - Geological Sciences

Normal Work Schedule: Monday - Friday 8:00am to 5:00pm

Job Summary: The Research Specialist works with departmental staff to design and conduct research projects.

Additional Department Summary: Supports the Department of Geological Sciences X-ray analytical laboratory and departmental teaching and research operations. The position manages X-ray laboratory operations; provides XRD/XRF analytical support and sample preparation; trains and supports faculty, students, and other laboratory users; coordinates laboratory safety, inventory, and purchasing; and works closely with the laboratory's faculty supervisor.

Required Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree or higher.

Skills and Knowledge: Knowledge of X-ray diffraction and related analytical workflows, sample preparation, mineral/phase identification, laboratory safety and EHS practices, instrument operation and troubleshooting, and laboratory inventory. Ability to support and train faculty and student users. Familiarity with quantitative mineral analysis, Rietveld refinement, analytical software, and basic computer, purchasing, and inventory processes is desirable.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in geology, chemistry, geochemistry, mineralogy, materials science, or a closely related scientific field.


• Experience with XRD and/or XRF analysis, mineral or materials characterization, sample preparation, analytical instrument operation and maintenance, and training or supporting laboratory users. Experience with Bruker XRD instrumentation and software such as XRD Commander, EVA, or TOPAS is preferred.

Background Investigation Statement: Prior to hiring, the final candidate(s) must successfully pass a pre-employment background investigation and information obtained from social media and other internet sources. A prior conviction reported as a result of the background investigation DOES NOT automatically disqualify a candidate from consideration for this position. A candidate with a prior conviction or negative behavioral red flags will receive an individualized review of the prior conviction or negative behavioral red flags before a hiring decision is made.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Alabama is an Equal Employment/Equal Educational Opportunity Institution. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment or volunteer status without regard to any legally protected basis and will not be discriminated against because of their protected status. Applicants and employees of this institution are protected under Federal law from discrimination on several bases. More information is available in the EEOC's Know Your Rights: Workplace discrimination is illegal poster.

The University of Alabama affirms its longstanding commitment to institutional neutrality, free speech, and academic freedom.