Research Associate 2 – Wetland Biogeochemistry

About the role

The Research Associate 2 will support the Wetland Biogeochemistry Analytical Services (WBAS) laboratory at LSU. The role provides hands‑on experience with environmental analytical techniques while ensuring timely processing of samples from internal and external clients.

Key responsibilities

• Receive and track environmental samples, verify chain‑of‑custody, and enter project data into laboratory databases.
• Perform routine sample preparation (drying, grinding, weighing, filtration, digestion, extraction, preservation) for water, sediment, soil, plant and biological materials.
• Operate analytical instruments such as CHN elemental analyzers, ICP‑OES, TOC analyzers, and Seal AA500 nutrient analyzers, including calibrations and start‑up/shut‑down procedures.
• Enter analytical results into electronic databases and Excel, maintain quality‑control documentation, and prepare preliminary data summaries.
• Prepare stock solutions, calibration standards, and quality‑control materials; perform general laboratory maintenance.
• Assist with other duties as assigned by laboratory management.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant scientific discipline.
• At least one year of experience in an environmental or analytical laboratory.
• Familiarity with auto‑pipettes, preparation of calibration and quality‑control standards, and safe handling of hydrochloric, nitric, and sulfuric acids.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow standard operating procedures and EPA‑approved methods.

Required skills

• Operation of CHN elemental analyzer, ICP‑OES, TOC analyzer, Seal AA500 nutrient analyzer.
• Sample preparation techniques: drying, grinding, weighing, filtration, digestion, extraction.
• Use of auto‑pipettes for standard preparation.
• Handling of HCl, HNO₃, H₂SO₄ for cleaning glassware and plasticware.
• Data entry and management in electronic databases and Microsoft Excel.