Research Assistant/Research Associate

Auburn University, United States

Updated: about 18 hours ago

Location: Auburn, ALABAMA

Deadline: ;

Position Details
Position Information

Requisition Number	S5020P
Home Org Name	Crop Soil and EnvironmentalSciences
Division Name	College of Agriculture
Position Title	Research Assistant/Research Associate
Job Class Code	HA01 A/B/C, HA02 A/B
Appointment Status	Full-time
Part-time FTE
Limited Term	Yes
Limited Term Length	1 year
Job Summary	The individual selected for this position will be responsible for the preparation and analysis of various samples (e.g., water, soil, manure) using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS), Gas Chromatography (GC), and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), XRD, and FTIR. The primary goal is to ensure accurate and reliable data generation in compliance with all quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) procedures and safety regulations. This is a two-year limited term position and is funded from external sources. Continuation of employment is contingent upon availability of funds.
Essential Functions	Essential duties and responsibilities include the following: Sample Management: Collect (if required), prepare, and process a variety of samples for analysis using appropriate extraction and digestion techniques. Instrument Operation: Operate, calibrate, and perform routine and preventive maintenance on ICP-MS, GC, HPLC, IC, XRD, and FTIR instruments, as well as other general laboratory equipment. Data Analysis and Reporting: Interpret test data, record results accurately, and generate comprehensive reports. Quality Control & Compliance: Follow standardized protocols, perform quality control checks, and adhere to all health, safety, and regulatory guidelines (e.g., EPA guidelines). Troubleshooting: Identify and resolve technical issues with instrumentation and analytical procedures, potentially assisting in the development and validation of new methods. Collaboration and Documentation: Maintain accurate documentation, including daily logs and equipment record books, and collaborate effectively with other technicians, chemists, and quality assurance teams. Lab Maintenance: Ensure a clean, safe, and organized laboratory environment, including proper handling and disposal of chemical waste.
Why Work at Auburn?	Life-Changing Impact: Our work changes lives through research, instruction, and outreach, making a lasting impact on our students, our communities, and the world. Culture of Excellence: We are committed to leveraging our strengths, resources, collaboration, and innovation as a top employer in higher education. We’re Here for You: Auburn offers generous benefits, educational opportunities, and a culture of support and work/life balance. Sweet Home Alabama: The Auburn/Opelika area offers southern charm, vibrant downtown scenes, top-ranked schools, and easy access to Atlanta, Birmingham, and the Gulf of Mexico beaches. A Place for Everyone: Auburn is committed to fostering an environment where all faculty, staff, and students are welcomed, valued, respected, and engaged. Ready to lead and shape the future of higher education? Apply today! War Eagle!

Minimum Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications	Research Assistant I: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in Chemistry, Environmental Science, Biology, Soil Chemistry, or a related field; no experience required. Research Assistant II: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in Chemistry, Environmental Science, Biology, Soil Chemistry, or a related field and 2 years of experience working in an analytical or environmental laboratory setting, with hands-on experience operating GC, HPLC, IC, FTIR, XRD, and ICP-Ms instruments. Research Assistant III: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in Chemistry, Environmental Science, Biology, Soil Chemistry, or a related field and 4 years of experience working in an analytical or environmental laboratory setting, with hands-on experience operating GC, HPLC, IC, FTIR, XRD, and ICP-Ms instruments. Research Associate I: Master’s degree from an accredited institution in Chemistry, Environmental Science, Biology, Soil Chemistry, or a related field; no experience required. Research Associate II: Master’s degree from an accredited institution in Chemistry, Environmental Science, Biology, Soil Chemistry, or a related field and 2 years of experience working in an analytical or environmental laboratory setting, with hands-on experience operating GC, HPLC, IC, FTIR, XRD, and ICP-Ms instruments. Substitution allowed for Experience: When a candidate has the required education, but lacks the required experience, they may normally apply additional appropriate education toward the experience requirement, at a rate of one (1) year relevant education per year of required experience.

Research Assistant I:
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in Chemistry, Environmental Science, Biology, Soil Chemistry, or a related field; no experience required.
Research Assistant II:
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in Chemistry, Environmental Science, Biology, Soil Chemistry, or a related field and 2 years of experience working in an analytical or environmental laboratory setting, with hands-on experience operating GC, HPLC, IC, FTIR, XRD, and ICP-Ms instruments.
Research Assistant III:
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in Chemistry, Environmental Science, Biology, Soil Chemistry, or a related field and 4 years of experience working in an analytical or environmental laboratory setting, with hands-on experience operating GC, HPLC, IC, FTIR, XRD, and ICP-Ms instruments.
Research Associate I:
Master’s degree from an accredited institution in Chemistry, Environmental Science, Biology, Soil Chemistry, or a related field; no experience required.
Research Associate II:
Master’s degree from an accredited institution in Chemistry, Environmental Science, Biology, Soil Chemistry, or a related field and 2 years of experience working in an analytical or environmental laboratory setting, with hands-on experience operating GC, HPLC, IC, FTIR, XRD, and ICP-Ms instruments.
Substitution allowed for Experience: When a candidate has the required education, but lacks the required experience, they may normally apply additional appropriate education toward the experience requirement, at a rate of one (1) year relevant education per year of required experience.

Minimum Skills, License, and Certifications

Minimum Skills and Abilities	Technical Skills: Proficiency in operating and troubleshooting analytical instrumentation (ICP-MS, GC, HPLC). Strong understanding of analytical chemistry principles and sample preparation techniques. Knowledge of standard laboratory practices, safety protocols, and relevant environmental regulations. Soft Skills: Excellent attention to detail and accuracy. Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. Effective written and verbal communication skills. Ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to multitask.
Minimum Technology Skills
Minimum License and Certifications

Minimum Skills and Abilities

Technical Skills:

Proficiency in operating and troubleshooting analytical instrumentation (ICP-MS, GC, HPLC).
Strong understanding of analytical chemistry principles and sample preparation techniques.
Knowledge of standard laboratory practices, safety protocols, and relevant environmental regulations.

Soft Skills:

Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
Effective written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to multitask.

Minimum Technology Skills

Minimum License and Certifications

Desired Qualifications

Desired Qualifications

Posting Detail Information

Salary Range	$35,300 - $72,540
Job Category	Research
Working Hours if Non-Traditional
City position is located in:	Auburn
State position is located:	Alabama
List any hazardous conditions or physical demands required by this position	This position primarily works in an indoor climate-controlled laboratory setting, which may include exposure to chemicals, fumes, and high-temperature equipment. The role requires the ability to stand for extended periods, handle laboratory glassware, and
Posting Date	01/23/2026
Closing Date
Equal Opportunity Compliance Statement	It is our policy to provide equal employment and education opportunities for all individuals without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other classification protected by applicable law. Please visit their website to learn more.
Special Instructions to Applicants	Please utilize the attachment feature and attach a cover letter and resume. Only complete application materials will be accepted for review.
Quick Link for Internal Postings	https://www.auemployment.com/postings/57950

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