Postdoctoral Research Associate

Job Title

Postdoctoral Research Associate

Agency

Texas A&M University

Department

Geology

Proposed Minimum Salary

Commensurate

Job Location

College Station, Texas

Job Type

Staff

Job Description

Here's a Glimpse of the Job

The Postdoctoral Research Associate will be responsible for conducting heating experiments for carbon-oxygen (“clumped”) isotope reordering of carbonate minerals, for the analysis of these samples on the stable light-isotope-ratio mass spectrometer (IRMS), and for the modeling of the data. The position also requires preparation of manuscripts based on experimental results. Also included in duties is maintenance and routine repairs on the 253 Plus IRMS and the automated carbonate reaction system. In addition, the successful applicant will be expected to participate in the preparation of proposals.

Opportunities to Contribute:

• Runs experimental carbonate samples on the 253 Plus IRMS coupled to the automated carbonate system.

• Models kinetic data using common clumped isotope reordering models

• Maintains and repairs IRMS and automated carbonate reaction system

• Takes the lead in preparing and submitting manuscripts for publication

• Conducts heating experiments with calcite and other carbonate minerals as necessary.

• Loads samples in quartz tubes with CO2 atmosphere and sealing with a torch.

• Heats samples in tube furnace and remove and chill at set intervals.

• Assists with preparation of a National Science Foundation proposal to develop material specific kinetic parameters for
  clumped isotope reordering of carbonate minerals

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Geology or equivalent science

• Use of vacuum lines for gas handling systems

• IRMS and automated carbonate reaction system

• Ability to operate laboratory equipment and handle research materials.

• Ability to lift and move heavy objects with assistance

A well-qualified candidate would also possess:

• 5 years of experience conducting clumped isotope heating experiments and analyses

• Experience using clumped isotope reordering models and programs such as the Isotopylog Python package

• Ability to conduct clumped isotope measurements on carbonate minerals and data quality control

• Scientific curiosity and ability to write scientific papers and proposal

• Reliability and strong work ethic

• Ability to effectively communicate both orally and in writing

• Ability to conduct clumped isotope measurements

• Working knowledge of Python and other programming language used for clumped isotope modeling packages

Salary: $33,000 annually - This position is expected to work in a part-time capacity.

Special Note: This position is funded from grant and/or contract funding, which is renewed through provisions of the grantor of the contract. Therefore, this position is contingent upon continuation of funding from these grants and/or contracts, as well as satisfactory job performance.

What You Need to Do

Apply! Submit a resume/cv and cover letter. These documents will help us with the review process. You may upload these documents on the application under CV/Resume.

Why Texas A&M University?

Texas A&M University is committed to enriching the learning and working environment by promoting a culture that respects all perspectives, talents & lived experiences. Embracing varying opinions and perspectives strengthens our core values which are: Respect, Excellence, Leadership, Loyalty, Integrity, and Selfless Service.

The Department of Geology & Geophysics is dedicated to advancing scientific understanding of the Earth, its fluids, and their history and future, preparing the next generation of earth scientists, and using our expertise to serve the broader scientific, government, and industry communities. Our most fundamental mission is to educate students at all levels. To that end we offer a B.A. and B.S. degree program in geology, a B.S. degree program in geophysics, M.S. and Ph.D.  

programs in geology, and M.S. and Ph.D. programs in geophysics. As one of the top geology and geophysics departments in the United States, we encourage you to browse our website and learn more about our department at: geoweb.tamu.edu    

We are a prestigious university with strong traditions, Core Values, and a community of caring and collaboration. Amenities associated with a major university, such as sporting and cultural events, state-of-the-art recreation facilities, the Bush Library and Museum, and much more await you. Experience all that a big city has to offer but with a reasonable cost-of-living and no long commutes.

• Medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, life and AD&D, flexible spending accounts , and long-term disability insurance with Texas A&M contributing to employee health and basic life premiums

• 12-15 days of annual paid holidays

• Up to eight hours of paid sick leave  and at least eight hours of paid vacation  each month

• Automatic enrollment in the Teacher Retirement System of Texas

• Health and Wellness: Free exercise programs and release time

• Professional Development: All employees have access to free LinkedIn Learning  training, webinars, and limited financial support to attend conferences, workshops, and more

• Educational release time and tuition assistance  for completing a degree while a Texas A&M employee

• Living Well, a program at Texas A&M that has been built by employees, for employees

Instructions to Applicants: Applications received by Texas A&M University must either have all job application data entered or a resume attached. Failure to provide all job application data or a complete resume could result in an invalid submission and a rejected application. We encourage all applicants to upload a resume’ or use a LinkedIn profile to pre-populate the online application.

All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution’s verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution’s procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.