Senior Research Associate

Bigelow Laboratory For Ocean Sciences; Boothbay (ME); On-site; USD 63,000 - 91,000; Full time

Job summary

Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences is hiring a Senior Research Associate to expand its PFAS analytical facility. The position involves leading research efforts in environmental testing, data production, and partnership building within a supportive and inclusive scientific community. Applicants should have relevant academic qualifications and strong project management skills.

Benefits

Healthcare

Retirement contributions

Paid time off

Qualifications

• 3+ years of relevant work experience for MS or 5+ for BS.
• Proven track record in PFAS analysis and method development.
• Experience with QA/QC procedures, LIMS systems, and lab operations.

Responsibilities

• Partner engagement and method development.
• Workflow optimization and strategic planning.
• Producing high-quality data in collaboration with others.

Skills

Project management

Problem solving

Communication

Data processing

Education

MS degree in chemistry, environmental science, or related field

BS degree in chemistry, environmental science, or related field

Tools

LC-MS/MS

R

Python

Job description

Overview
Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences seeks a dynamic Senior Research Associate to help lead the expansion of our PFAS analytical facility into a hub for environmental testing and collaborative research in aquatic systems and seafood. The successful candidate will be part of the marine environmental chemistry laboratory and collaborate with the facility director and laboratory technicians to expand the impact of our research by producing high-quality data using cutting-edge methods and impactful partnerships. Tasks include partner engagement, method development, workflow optimization, and strategic planning.

This exempt-level position provides ample space for independence, initiative, and professional growth. This is a one-year position, with the possibility of an extension upon satisfactory outcomes and funding availability.

The salary is commensurate with experience and falls within Bigelow Laboratory’s Senior Research Associate pay band ($63,000–$91,000), accompanied by a generous benefits package that includes healthcare, retirement contributions, and paid time off.

Requirements

• MS degree in chemistry, environmental science, or a related field plus 3+ years of relevant work experience; or BS degree in one of these fields plus 5+ years of relevant work experience
• Strong project management and independent problem solving skills
• Excellent organizational, communication, and external engagement capabilities
• Experience with QA/QC procedures, LIMS systems, and lab operations
• Proven track record in PFAS analysis and method development using LC-MS/MS
• Proficiency in data processing using R or Python

Preferred Qualifications

• Expertise in LC/MS instrumentation maintenance
• Experience with non-targeted PFAS workflows or HRMS data interpretation
• Experience in research or proposal development

Apply
Applicants should submit the following to our online application portal:

• A one-page cover letter outlining your motivation and relevant experience for this position
• A detailed curriculum vitae or resume specifically highlighting experience in the stated requirements
• Contact information for three references

For full consideration, the application should be received by July 1, 2025. The search will continue until the position is filled. The anticipated start date is as early as August 2025.

Individuals seeking more information about this position or needing to request an accommodation, please contact [e-mail] or [phone], ext. 107.

Working at Bigelow Laboratory
Bigelow Laboratory is an inclusive community of scientists from around the world. Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences strives to maintain an environment that allows our employees to flourish through respectful, inclusive, and equitable treatment of others. We are committed to supporting each other as individuals worthy of respect. Bigelow Laboratory is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.