Laboratory Research Technician position - Agroecology lab, UMD

Department: Plant Science and Landscape Architecture

Supervisor: Dr. Kate Tully | kltully@umd.edu  
Application deadline: 17 Oct 2020
Start date: 1 Dec 2020

Apply at https://ejobs.umd.edu/postings/79619

Seeking an experienced laboratory technician in the Agroecology lab at the University of Maryland. Research projects include investigating the impact of climate change on mid-Atlantic farming systems. In particular, we investigate the impact of sea level rise and saltwater intrusion on coastal agricultural land.

Responsibilities:

• Receive, label, process, and analyze samples (e.g. water, soil, and plant). Designing and executing laboratory tests according to standard operating procedures.
• Prepare stock chemicals, reagents, and standards according to written procedures.
• Organize and store all chemical substances, fluids, compressed gases according to safety instructions.
• Record all data and results in specified formats (e.g. google docs, google sheets) with accuracy and responsibility
• Calibrate, configure and/or troubleshoot laboratory equipment and instruments.
• Maintain equipment and assist in ordering laboratory supplies.
• Ensure that all safety guidelines are followed strictly at all times, especially in regards to COVID-19.
• Maintain a clean and orderly laboratory environment.
• Assist with graduate research projects. Supervise undergraduate interns as necessary.
• Maintain records and perform basic mathematical calculations.
• Occasionally assist with field work, which may require overnight trips to field sites.

Education: B.S. in chemistry, soil science, environmental science, plant science, or related field. M.S. degree preferred.

Experience:

• At least 2 years of work in laboratory research (can be during undergrad degree).
• At least 1 year of experience with soil and plant sampling, processing, and analysis.
• Knowledge of the use and maintenance of laboratory facilities and equipment.
• Knowledge of laboratory and experimental protocols and procedures.
• Ability to utilize, calibrate, configure and/or troubleshoot laboratory equipment and instruments. Preference will be given to applicants who have direct experience operating colorimeters (such as LACHAT QuikChem), atomic absorption spectrometers, or ion chromatographs.
• Ability to work alone and under pressure.
• Have knowledge of the basic principles of chemistry, ecology, and soil science.
• Ability to follow assigned protocols and recognizes and report abnormal or unexpected results.
• Skill in keeping exact and detailed records of data obtained from field experiments.
• Skill in the use of personal computers and software packages in the data collection, analysis, and presentation processes (e.g. Excel and R)
• Must have strong organizational and communication skills.
• Must be able to work outdoors, in hot and buggy conditions.
• Must be able to carry at least 30 pounds.