RESEARCH SCIENTIST - SCIENTIST - Analytical Chemistry Scientist at Southwest Research Institute

Who We Are:

The Forensic and Specialty Analysis group resides in the Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Division. We specialize in performing studies that use chemical and pharmaceutical based agents to develop analytical methods, determine signature attribution, conduct decontamination and environmental fate studies, and evaluate detector/sensors. The laboratory is highly structured with redundant safety systems and maintains strict adherence to U.S. Government regulations and test protocols.

Objectives of this Role:

• Project leadership to organize, schedule, and execute tests. This will include writing proposals, test plans, procedures, and test reports.
• Interact with technical staff to ensure workplace safety, determine work assignments, and provide project updates, problem identification, and problem solving.
• Follow test and safety protocols for performing tests with and handling chemical and pharmaceutical based agents. This will include participating in risk assessments and hazard analysis and test walk through prior to performing tests.
• Operate and process data from instrumentation to include GC and LC systems. Processing will include data compilation, organizing, and clear presentation.
• Must be able to work well in a team environment and contribute ideas for projects and work processes.

Daily and Monthly Responsibilities:

• Develop analytical methods for various research matrices.
• Operate, clean, and maintain highly specialized laboratory instrumentation to include MiniCAMs, GC/MS, LC-QqQ, and LC-qTOF, as well as familiarity with equipment to oversee work being conducted by technical support staff.
• High attention to detail with regards to documentation.
• Maintain complete and accurate documentation of laboratory records to be able to defend to internal and external stakeholders.
• Development of analytical chemistry standard operating procedures. Preparation and review proposals, safety protocols, test plans, procedures and task risk assessments.
• Maintain training requirements to include HAZWOPER, First-aid/CPR, PPE, division SOPs, laboratory safety protocols, and test analytical procedures.
• Organize and conduct chemical tests in support of a broad range of projects.

Requirements:

• Requires a Bachelors or a Masters degree in Chemistry or Biochemistry.
• 1+ years: Experience working with chromatography systems, wet chemistry techniques, and other analytical techniques in a laboratory setting. High attention to detail in calculations, experimental design, testing, and reporting.
• 1+ years: Lab experience involving organic synthesis, organic extractions, kinetic studies, preparing analytical standards, and handling toxic/hazardous materials.
• Must follow and adhere to safety requirements and stay up to date with training.
• Must meet requirements and be able to wear PPE. Will be enrolled in a medical monitoring program.
• Report writing, data compilation, and presentation preparation.
• Must be familiar with MS Word, Excel, Project, Power Point, Outlook, and Teams.
• A valid/clear driver's license is required.