at University of Illinois in Urbana, Illinois, United States
Job Description
Research Lab Coordinator (Yang Lab) - Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and EnvironmentInstitute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment
The Yang Lab is broadly interested in how human activities are changing how natural and managed ecosystems function and how ecosystem responses to global change can feedback to drive or slow future global change. Our research is in terrestrial biogeochemistry and ecosystem ecology with a focus on determining process rates and drivers of chemical transformations in the environment. We are particularly interested in the controls on greenhouse gas emissions, the effects of anthropogenic nitrogen inputs on soil nitrogen retention and loss, the effects of plant community composition shifts on soil nitrogen and carbon dynamics, and the coupling of biogeochemical cycles beyond carbon and nitrogen. An important component of our research is the development of novel methodological approaches using tracer and natural abundance stable isotope techniques, in particular to quantify soil dinitrogen emissions and gross fluxes of greenhouse gases. A current focus of our research program is utilizing plant-microbe interactions, such as root exudation of biological nitrification inhibition compounds, to mitigate agroecosystem nutrient losses through soil leaching of nitrate and emissions of nitrous oxide, an important greenhouse gas.
Job Summary
Manage the CABBI Stable Isotope Labeling Facility, support CABBI research activities in the Yang Lab, and manage spectrometer services for the Yang Lab.
Duties & Responsibilities
- • Manage spectrometer service activities, including maintaining and troubleshooting analytical instrumentation (including a gas chromatograph, SmartChem discrete analyzer, inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometer, stable isotope ratio mass spectrometer interfaced with a trace gas analyzer and elemental analyzer), training users on the instrumentation, analyzing soil, plant, gas, and water samples for outside labs, and invoicing for services
- • Train CABBI postdoctoral researchers, graduate students, and undergraduate students in the Yang Lab on laboratory analytical instrumentation and standard operating procedures for laboratory and field research activities
- • Train and assist CABBI Stable Isotope Labeling Facility users
- • Maintain and troubleshoot the Conviron growth chambers housing the Stable Isotope Labeling Facility and the instrumentation for monitoring and regulating carbon dioxide, humidity, and temperature in the labeling chambers
- • Assist with preparation of CABBI data for publication, including data compilation, analysis, and quality assurance/quality control
- • Purchase, receive, and inventory scientific supplies and equipment related to CABBI projects, including for the Stable Isotope Labeling Facility
- • Purchase, receive, and inventory scientific supplies and equipment related to CABBI projects, including for the Stable Isotope Labeling Facility
M.S. or Ph.D. degree in chemistry, biology, environmental science, soil science, or related field. Alternate degree fields will be considered/accepted depending on depth and breadth of experience and skills as related to this position. Hands-on experience with stable isotope techniques.
Preferred Qualifications
Coursework or research experience with stable isotope techniques; Direct experience with analytical instrumentation (such as a Picarro cavity ring-down spectrometers, gas chromatograph, SmartChem discrete analyzer, inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometer, stable isotope ratio mass spectrometer interfaced with a trace gas analyzer and elemental analyzer). Basic experience with computer programming (e.g., R, Python). Working knowledge of electronic multiplexers, solenoid valves, and pneumatic systems.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Required: High level of self-motivation; Enthusiasm for learning new skills; Ability to work independently and in a large collaborative team environment; Strong organizational skills
This is a 100% full-time Academic Professional position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after closing date. Salary is commensurate with experience, but minimum annual salary is $60,000.
Application Procedures & Deadline Information
Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on August 12, 2024. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. Qualified candidates must upload a letter of which details qualifications noted above, resume and the names and contact information of three professional references. All requested information must be submitted for your application to be considered. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. For further information, please contact Erica Hanson, Human Resources, elhanson@illinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.
The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify .
Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodations portal , or by contacting the Accessibility & Accommodations Division of the Office for Access and Equity at 217-333-0885, or by emailing accessibility@illinois.edu .
Requisition ID: 1024806
Job Category: Research
Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu
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