Analytical Chemist

Job Description

We are seeking a skilled Analytical Chemist to join the team at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine. This position will work in the Analytical Chemistry Research Laboratory service center with a primary support focus on pharmacology and toxicology. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in Chemistry or a related field, along with a minimum of 2 years of hands-on experience with ICP-MS and LC-MS/MS instrumentation. The Analytical Chemist will play a crucial role in conducting analytical testing, method development, data analysis, and reporting, ensuring high-quality results are delivered to support the college’s research initiatives. The person in this position will be the primary operator and user of the laboratory space and equipment. The ideal candidate will have a safety-first focus with a thorough understanding and adherence to safety protocols. This position requires experience in complex sample preparation, including biological samples and those with complex matrices. Training in new techniques will be available as needed.

Key Responsibilities

The chief objective of this position is to directly operate the Vet Med Analytical Research Laboratory, a service center of the College of Veterinary Medicine. The primary responsibilities for this position include:

• Day to day operation of the VetMed Analytical Research Laboratory with minimal supervision, ability to work independently, and a focus on safety.
• Work as a technical expert in analytical chemistry for a variety of clients to include principal investigators, project directors, toxicologists, research staff and graduate students on projects from multiple fields of study.
• Develop and validate custom analytical methods utilizing laboratory instrumentation based on client needs with a high degree of attention to detail. Results generated will have a significant impact on research programs and their associated funding opportunities.
• Perform elemental and trace organic analyses using ICP-MS and LC-MS/MS in any sample matrix as needed by the client to include geological, biological, and polymeric matrices. Be able to analyze, document and organize resulting data in a format appropriate for the client.
• Maintenance and support of instrumentation, including calibration, documentation and management of the laboratory equipment’s service contracts in order to support high quality data output.
• Responsible for laboratory financials of the service center to include purchasing laboratory supplies, coordinating project pricing and final invoice generation for billing of clients.
• Perform other duties as assigned
  
  

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, or a related field

Minimum of 2 years of hands-on experience with LC-MS/MS and/or ICP-MS operations. Supplemental training will be available as needed.

Strong analytical skills with the ability to troubleshoot and solve complex problems

Proficient in safely handling and disposing of hazardous chemicals such as concentrated acids, organic solvents, and pharmaceuticals

Experience in data management and redundant backups

Experience with complex sample preparation

Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail

Effective communication skills, both written and verbal

Ability to work independently and collaboratively

Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Outlook, Word, etc.)

Preferred Qualifications

Master's degree or higher in Chemistry or a related field

5 or more years of hands-on experience with LC-MS/MS

5 or more years of hands-on experience with ICP-MS

Experience with method development and validation

Experience with Liquid/liquid extraction, solid phase extraction, and microwave acid digestion sample preparation techniques

Experience with development and revision of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

Familiarity with regulatory guidelines and compliance requirements (e.g., FDA, EPA)

Prior experience in a research setting

Proficiency in additional analytical techniques (e.g., GC-MS, HPLC)

Experience in toxicology and pharmacology analysis of biological samples

Proficiency in budgeting and invoicing for client projects

Pay Band

4; Salary

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

Salary; Pay Band 4; to commensurate with experience

Review Date

05/24/2024

Additional Information

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges , a school of medicine , a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School , and Honors College . The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including the Innovation Campus in Northern Virginia; the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke; sites in Newport News and Richmond; and numerous Extension offices and research centers . A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $500 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Brad Bryson at bbryson@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.