Research Specialist I at San Diego State University in San Diego, California

Job Description:

Research Specialist I




Req No: 2024-17136

Category:
Research/Project

Type:
Full-Time Contract

Salary:
$18.00 - $19.00 per hour

Close Date:



Overview



The salary range for this position is $18.00 - $19.00 per hour depending upon qualifications and is non-negotiable.


FUNCTION OF THE UNIT



The Environmental Biotechnology Lab at San Diego State University, within the Department of Civil, Construction & Environmental Engineering, focuses on pioneering research to address pressing environmental challenges. Our lab emphasizes the development and application of sustainable technologies to improve water quality, manage waste, and mitigate pollution. The team consists of approximately 10 people, including PhD, Masters, and undergraduate students.

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION



The primary objective of this position is to support an NSF CAREER award-funded project within the Department of Civil, Construction & Environmental Engineering at San Diego State University. This project aims to elucidate the interactions between exoelectrogenic bacteria and methanogenic archaea in a biocathode environment, advancing our understanding of these microbial processes and their applications in sustainable energy and environmental technologies. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in achieving the project's goals by conducting laboratory experiments, collecting and analyzing data, maintaining lab equipment, and ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in environmental biotechnology and to develop skills and experience in a dynamic, interdisciplinary research setting. By providing essential support to the project, the Research Assistant will help drive scientific discoveries that could lead to innovative solutions for energy production and environmental remediation, aligning with the broader mission of the NSF CAREER program to promote the integration of education and research in engineering disciplines.







Responsibilities



Core Responsibilities

Conduct Experiments (55%) : Perform a variety of experiments in a wet lab environment, ensuring adherence to established protocols.

Data Collection and Analysis (15%): Collect, organize, and analyze experimental data. Utilize statistical and analytical tools to interpret results and generate meaningful insights.

Technical Reporting (2%): Prepare detailed technical reports documenting experimental procedures, results, and conclusions. Present findings clearly and effectively to the research team and stakeholders.

Training and Mentorship (2%): Assist in training new lab members and students in proper laboratory techniques and safety procedures. Provide guidance and support as needed.

Collaboration (1%): Work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team of researchers, faculty, and students. Contribute to group discussions and project planning meetings.

Laboratory Maintenance (1%): Maintain the lab's cleanliness and organization. Ensure all equipment is in good working order through routine maintenance and troubleshooting.

Lab Ordering and Inventory Management (1%): Assist with ordering laboratory supplies and managing inventory to ensure availability of necessary materials for ongoing research activities.

Compliance and Safety (1%): Adhere to all safety protocols and regulatory requirements. Ensure all laboratory practices comply with institutional and governmental guidelines.

Position Specific Responsibilities

• 
  Project Coordination (10%): Manage project timelines, ensuring all milestones and deliverables are met. Coordinate with stakeholders to align project activities with overarching research objectives.


• 
  Protocol Development (5%): Design, optimize, and implement experimental protocols tailored to the specific research questions of the project. Adapt methods as needed to achieve project goals.


• 
  Specialized Analytical Techniques (2%): Utilize advanced analytical techniques specific to the project, such as chromatography (e.g., GC-MS, HPLC), spectroscopy (e.g., UV-Vis, FTIR), or other specialized methods relevant to the research objectives.


• 
  Environmental Sample Analysis (2%): Handle and analyze various environmental samples, including water, soil, and air, to detect and quantify contaminants, nutrients, or other target parameters.


• 
  Interdisciplinary Collaboration (2%): Collaborate with researchers from various disciplines, such as chemistry, biology, and environmental science, to incorporate interdisciplinary approaches into the research.


• 
  Grant and Funding Assistance (1%): Assist in preparing grant proposals and reports.

Qualifications


Core Knowledge and Abilities

• 
  Fundamental Environmental Engineering Knowledge: Comprehensive understanding of environmental engineering principles, including water and wastewater treatment, air pollution control, environmental chemistry, and sustainable practices.


• 
  Data Analysis and Interpretation: Ability to collect, organize, and analyze experimental data using statistical software (e.g., R, MATLAB, Python) and other relevant tools. Strong quantitative skills to interpret results and draw meaningful conclusions.


• 
  Technical Writing and Reporting: Excellent technical writing skills to prepare detailed reports, including methodologies, results, and discussion of findings. Ability to present data and findings clearly and concisely in both written and oral formats.


• 
  Attention to Detail: Meticulous attention to detail to ensure accuracy and reproducibility of experimental results. Strong organizational skills to maintain detailed lab records and manage multiple tasks efficiently.


• 
  Collaboration and Communication: Strong interpersonal skills to work effectively within a team of researchers, faculty, and students. Ability to communicate complex technical information to diverse audiences.


• 
  Safety and Compliance: Understanding of laboratory safety protocols and regulatory requirements. Commitment to maintaining a safe and compliant working environment.

Project Specific Knowledge and Abilities

• 
  Experimental Design and Protocol Development: Ability to design and optimize experimental protocols to address specific research questions. Experience in developing and implementing new methodologies tailored to project needs.


• 
  Project Management: Skills in managing project timelines, resources, and deliverables. Ability to coordinate with project stakeholders and ensure alignment with project goals and milestones.


• 
  Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Ability to collaborate with researchers from different disciplines, such as chemistry, biology, and environmental science, to achieve project objectives. Knowledge of integrating interdisciplinary approaches into research design.

Core Experience/Education

Bachelor of Science in Environmental Engineering

One year of experience in technical research or statistical work experience.

Preferred Qualifications and Special Skills

• Master’s degree in Environmental Engineering, Renewable Energy, and/or related fields.


• Experience working in a research environment.


• Knowledge of current literature around bioelectrochemical systems and microbial biotechnology.


• Familiarity with standard lab equipment and techniques such as spectrophotometry, chromatography, and microscopy.

ADDITIONAL APPLICANT INFORMATION

• Candidate must reside in California or live in a commutable distance from SDSU at time of hire.


• Job offer is contingent upon satisfactory clearance based on Brackground Check results (including a criminal record check).


• San Diego State University Research Foundation is an EEO/AA/Disability/Vets/Title IX Employer.

To apply, visit https://careers-sdsurf.icims.com/jobs/17136/research-specialist-i/job?in_iframe=1





















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