Postdoctoral Research Associate

Job Title

Postdoctoral Research Associate

Agency

Texas A&M University

Department

Geology

Proposed Minimum Salary

Commensurate

Job Location

College Station, Texas

Job Type

Staff

Job Description

Here’s a Glimpse of the Job

The Postdoctoral Research Associate will conduct heating experiments to quantify carbon-oxygen ("clumped") isotope resetting kinetics in carbonate minerals, analyze samples using a stable light-isotope-ratio mass spectrometer (IRMS), and model experimental data. Responsibilities also include preparing manuscripts based on research findings and performing routine maintenance and repairs on the 253 Plus IRMS and automated carbonate reaction system.

 Responsibilities

• Model kinetic data using common clumped isotope reordering models. 

• Take the lead in preparing and submitting manuscripts for publication.

• Prepare and characterize samples with thin-section petrography, scanning electron microscopy, and other techniques with assistance as needed 
• Conduct heating experiments with carbonate minerals, including loading and sealing samples in quartz tubes.   

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Geology or equivalent science.
• Ability to lift, carry, load, or unload instructional materials of heavy weight.

 A well-qualified candidate for this position will also possess:

• 2 years of experience performing clumped isotope analyses on carbonate minerals, preferably on a Thermo Fisher Scientific 253 Plus IRMS system with Kiel automated carbonate system.
• Experience conducting clumped isotope heating experiments.  
• Experience using clumped isotope reordering models and programs such as the Isotopylog Python package.
• 2 years of experience with simple maintenance and repairs on an IRMS.
• Scientific curiosity and ability to write scientific papers. 
• Use of vacuum lines for gas handling systems.

Salary: Commensurate

Please note: This position is funded through an NSF grant; future employment may be contingent upon future funding.

What You Need to Do: 

Select the Apply button to begin your application. Submitting a cover letter and resume is strongly recommended and will help us with the review process. You may upload these documents on the application under CV/Resume.

Why Texas A&M University?

Texas A&M University is committed to enriching the learning and working environment by promoting a culture that respects all perspectives, talents & lived experiences.  Embracing varying opinions and perspectives strengthens our core values which are: Respect, Excellence, Leadership, Loyalty, Integrity, and Selfless Service. 

The Department of Geology & Geophysics is dedicated to advancing scientific understanding of the Earth, its fluids, and their history and future, preparing the next generation of earth scientists, and using our expertise to serve the broader scientific, government, and industry communities. Our most fundamental mission is to educate students at all levels. To that end we offer a B.A. and B.S. degree program in geology, a B.S. degree program in geophysics, M.S. and Ph.D. programs in geology, and M.S. and Ph.D. programs in geophysics. As one of the top geology and geophysics departments in the United States, we encourage you to browse our website and learn more about our department at: geoweb.tamu.edu

We are a prestigious university with strong traditions, Core Values, and a community of caring and collaboration.  Amenities associated with a major university, such as sporting and cultural events, state-of-the-art recreation facilities, the Bush Library and Museum, and much more await you.  Experience all that a big city has to offer but with a reasonable cost-of-living and no long commutes.  

• Medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, life and AD&D, flexible spending accounts, and long-term disability insurance with Texas A&M contributing to employee health and basic life premiums 
• 12-15 days of annual paid holidays  
• Up to eight hours of paid sick leave and at least eight hours of paid vacation each month 
• Automatic enrollment in the Teacher Retirement System of Texas
• Health and Wellness: Free exercise programs and release time 

Instructions to Applicants: Applications received by Texas A&M University must either have all job applications data entered, or a resume attached. Failure to provide all job application data or a complete resume could result in invalid submission and a rejected application. We encourage all applicants to upload a resume or use a Linkedin profile to prepopulate the online application.

All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution’s verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution’s procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.