Research Associate 2

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Job Posting Title:

Research Associate 2

   

Position Type:

Other Academic

   

Department:

LSUAM CCE - DOCS - Wetland Biogeochemistry (John R White (00008640))

   

Work Location:

3196 Energy, Coast, and Environment Building

   

Pay Grade:

Other Academic

   

Job Description:

The Research Associate 2 will support the Wetland Biogeochemistry Analytical Services (WBAS) laboratory by assisting with sample intake, sample preparation, routine analytical procedures, data entry, and laboratory maintenance activities. This position is designed to provide hands-on experience in environmental analytical techniques while supporting the timely processing of environmental samples submitted by LSU researchers and external clients.

Job Responsibilities:

Sample Intake and Project Tracking: Receive environmental samples submitted by internal and external clients. Verify sample IDs, chain-of-custody forms, preservation requirements, holding times, and sample integrity. Enter project information into laboratory tracking databases and communicate any discrepancies to laboratory management. 15%

Sample Preparation and Laboratory Analysis: Perform routine sample preparation procedures including drying, grinding, weighing, filtration, digestion, extraction, and preservation according to established SOPs and EPA-approved methods. Assist with the preparation of environmental samples including water, sediment, soil, plant, and biological materials. 30%

Instrument Operation: Operate routine analytical instrumentation following training and established SOPs, including elemental analyzers (CHN), ICP-OES, TOC analyzers, Seal nutrient analyzers (AA500), and other laboratory equipment. Perform routine calibrations and daily startup/shutdown procedures. 30%

Data Management and Quality Control Documentation: Maintain accurate laboratory records and perform data entry into electronic databases and Excel spreadsheets. Assist with quality assurance and quality control documentation, including calibration logs, laboratory control samples, duplicates, blanks, and standard recoveries. Prepare preliminary data summaries for review by senior laboratory staff. 15%

Laboratory Maintenance: Prepare stock solutions, calibration standards, and quality control materials. 5%

Other duties as assigned. 5%

Minimum Requirements:

Bachelor's Degree

One-year related experience

Specific Experience: Familiar with auto pipettes for making calibration standards and quality control standards. Familiar with the proper use of hydrochloric acid, nitric acid and sulfuric acid for cleaning plastic-ware and glassware. Strong attention to detail and ability to follow SOPs. Basic experience with Microsoft Excel. Experience in chemical laboratory procedures and using proper SOP protocol for cleaning laboratory materials.

Preferred Qualifications:

Master's Degree
Specific Experience: Experience with environmental sample preparation.

Experience using analytical instrumentation.

Familiarity with EPA methods and laboratory QA/QC procedures.

Job Competencies:

The use of automatic pipettes for making standards. Proficient

Be able to work with others in a laboratory setting. Proficient

Strong attention to detail and ability to follow SOPS. Proficient

Experience with Microsoft Excel. Proficient

Know the rules and regulations for dealing with common acids. Proficient

 

 

   

Additional Job Description:

Special Instructions:

Please provide a cover letter, resume, and three (3) professional references including name, title, phone number, and e-mail address.
Please attach ALL required documents under the "Resume/CV" section of your application.

A copy of your transcript(s) may be attached to your application (if available). However, original transcripts are required before hiring.

Due to the nature of the position and/or position responsibilities, this position shall be subject to pre-employment screenings in accordance with University Policy as required and RS:17 screenings (https://www.legis.la.gov/legis/Law.aspx?p=y&d=1297548).

For questions or concerns regarding the status of your application or salary ranges, please contact Sharon Butler at [email protected].

For questions or concerns about updating your application with attachments (e.g., resumes, RS:17 documents), date of birth, or reactivating applications, please contact the LSU Human Resources Management Office at 225-578-8200 or email [email protected].

   

Skills Needed:

   

Preferred Skills:

   

Posting Date:

August 19, 2026

   

Closing Date (Open Until Filled if No Date Specified):

December 17, 2026

  

Additional Position Information:

Background Check - An offer of employment is contingent on a satisfactory pre-employment background check.

Benefits - LSU offers outstanding benefits to eligible employees and their dependents including health, life, dental, and vision insurance; flexible spending accounts; retirement options; various leave options; paid holidays; wellness benefits; tuition exemption for qualified positions; training and development opportunities; employee discounts; and more!

Positions approved to work outside the State of Louisiana shall be employed through Louisiana State University’s partner, nextSource Workforce Solutions, for Employer of Record Services including but not limited to employment, benefits, payroll, and tax compliance. Positions employed through Employer of Record Services will be offered benefits and retirement as applicable through their provider and will not be eligible for State of Louisiana benefits and retirement.

   

Essential Position (Y/N):

   

LSU is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

   

All candidates must have valid U.S. work authorization at the time of hire and maintain that valid work authorization throughout employment. Changes in laws, regulations, or government policies may impact the university’s ability to employ individuals in certain positions.

   

HCM Contact Information: