Research Technician

at  Oak Ridge National Laboratory

OVERVIEW:

We are seeking a research technician who will to provide laboratory and field support for several ecosystem-level studying the response of terrestrial ecosystems to climate change. This position resides in the Plant-Soil Interactions Group in the Environmental Sciences Division at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).
As part of our team, you will collect and process a variety of soil, plant, and water samples using a wide array of analytical chemistry methods and equipment. We are looking for someone to sort plant tissues, weigh and grind samples, run analytical machines to determine concentrations of C, N P, and other trace elements, manage data processing and archival, participate in field campaigns, and maintain a productive, clean, and safe laboratory environment. This will be a full-time position with potential for scientific growth for an independent and highly motivated individual. The position is for one year with full benefits including a medical plan and vacation, with potential for renewal based on available funding and performance. This position will support laboratory and field activities associated with the SPRUCE field experiment which focuses on understanding the response of boreal peatlands to warming and elevated atmospheric CO2 as well as the NGEE Arctic project which focuses on the impact of climate change on high latitude, tundra ecosystems. The selected candidate will focus on belowground nutrient dynamics and root ecology with Dr. Verity Salmon.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• The successful candidate will have a BS/BA in a chemistry, ecology, geology, biology or a related environmental field.
• Experience with wet chemistry techniques is required.
• Experience with running, maintaining, and troubleshooting analytical equipment in a laboratory setting is also required.
• Willingness to participate in field research is required but past experience performing field research is not.
• The candidate must have a demonstrated ability to archive and organize data.
• The candidate must have excellent communication skills, be dependable, and interested in continued learning.
• The candidate must be able to travel for 1-2 weeks at a time and perform physically demanding tasks outdoors.
• The candidate must hold a current, valid driver’s license and be able to pass a background check.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience with analytical instruments that use colorimetric methods similar to those employed by the Smartchem200 (ie, Lachat Quickchem, Astoria-Pacific Autoanalyzer, Seal Autoanalyzer, etc).
• Familiarity with ecosystem ecology methodology - plant and soil collection in the field and processing in the laboratory.
• The ideal candidate will have a commitment to teamwork, continuous learning, a desire to improve the efficiency of everyday tasks, and a personal investment in accuracy, reproducible science, and data documentation and management.
• Ability to thrive within a collaborative, team environment.
• Personal experience communicating technical information in a concise and clear manner.
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs.

• The successful candidate will be responsible for developing protocols and running samples on a Smartchem200 discrete liquid analyzer for NH4, NO3, and PO4 concentrations using colorimetric techniques (KPM analytics instrument).
• In addition to working with analytical machines, the candidate would be required to undertake preparation of plant and soil samples, notably that of fine roots (sample sorting, cleaning, grinding, weighing, etc).
• Working within ORNL facilities requires strict adherence to safety protocols so duties will also include writing up protocols, maintaining chemical inventories, and communicating with parties across our large and interdisciplinary organization. Responsibilities would also include developing and maintaining comprehensive in-house protocols.
• Two to three times a year, trips to field sites in Northern Minnesota may be required to collect new samples and data. During field campaigns, team members often work long hours and occasionally share housing: a strong work ethic and interest in natural ecosystems can make these challenging trips rewarding for the right individual. Field conditions can be unpredictable and strenuous: inclement weather, manual labor, insects, and unforeseen logistical challenges often prevail. Travel for field campaigns is expected to take up roughly 1 month/year.
• The candidate will deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility by fostering a respectful workplace – in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.