Faculty.Professor.Research Assistant - Full-Time

Organic & Stable Isotope Biogeochemistry, Research Assistant Professor 

The Department of Geology and Environmental Science at the University of Pittsburgh

https://www.geology.pitt.edu/ invites applications for a Research Assistant Professor position.  We are seeking a talented and creative research scientist to work on organic and stable isotope biogeochemistry in aquatic systems.   

This appointment will work closely with the Pitt Organic & Stable Isotope Biogeochemistry Laboratory (POSIBL) research group of Professor Josef Werne, applying organic and stable isotopic techniques to investigate geobiology and biogeochemical cycling, and (paleo)climate and environmental change on all time scales ranging from human to geological. The research focus of the POSIBL group includes the development of new biogeochemical proxies, the response of aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems to both natural and anthropogenic climate and environmental change, the biogeochemistry of aquatic systems, astrobiology, and the biogeochemistry of organic sulfur.   

This a 1-year term appointment, with the possibility of renewal annually, and is in the non-tenured, appointment stream with promotion potential.   The start date is September 1, 2024. 

Your responsibilities include, but are not limited to: 

1. Formulate and design studies, write proposals, interpret complex data, and publish results in the peer-reviewed literature. 

2. Mentor graduate and undergraduate students, train and supervise students and other laboratory users, supervise sample preparation and analysis.  

3. Develop new analytical, technical, and processing methods in collaboration with researchers to advance the field.  

4. Supervise sample analysis and perform data reduction and data quality control.  Maintain sample tracking databases, laboratory-wide data, and procedures curation, and adherence to university data management policies. 

5. Oversight of general laboratory operations including operation, training on, and maintenance of laboratory equipment, collaboration with lab users, facilities staff, EH&S representatives, and other facility lab managers as required, maintaining compliance with university, state, and federal health and safety requirements. 

The successful candidate will: 

·         While the candidate’s specific research directions are flexible, the position will involve organic and stable isotope biogeochemical analysis.  

·         Maintaining accurate and comprehensive files documenting geochemical analyses, results and outlining workflow is critical as is displaying data and output graphically.  

Minimum qualifications for the Research Assistant Professor position include: 

·         A Ph.D. in Geoscience with a focus on organic and stable isotope biogeochemistry is required. 

·         Candidates should have a publication record in peer-reviewed journals. 

Preferred qualifications for Research Assistant Professor include:  

·         Experience in analytical chemistry and biogeochemistry of aquatic systems

·         Proficiency in R is helpful.   

Salary will be commensurate with experience. Preference will be given to candidates demonstrating excellent teamwork, organizational, and communication skills and are excited to join a highly collaborative environment.  This role is designated as onsite and requires incumbents to report to work at the University of Pittsburgh. The position requires moderate standing, walking, lifting, and computer-based tasks.  Ability to bend, squat, kneel, stand, reach above shoulder level, and move on hard surfaces for up to 8 hours. 

How to Apply: 

If interested, please contact Josef Werne [email protected] with questions. 

To ensure full consideration, complete applications should be received by May 30, 2024. However, applications will be accepted for the duration of the search. Applicants can apply online at: Talent Center: Careers at Pitt. Candidates should submit: 

·         Curriculum Vitae,  

·         Statement of research interests outlining your qualifications for this position and overview of past research experiences,  

·         Addresses for 2-3 letters of recommendation. 

The Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences is committed to building and fostering a culturally diverse environment. Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of individuals and constituencies in support of a diverse community are required. 

Additional required attachment: names/contact information for two (2) references.

The University of Pittsburgh is committed to championing all aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within our community. This commitment is a fundamental value of the University and is crucial in helping us advance our mission, which includes attracting and retaining diverse workforces. We will continue to create and maintain an environment that allows individuals to discover, belong, contribute, and grow, while honoring the experiences, perspectives, and unique identities of all.

The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity. EOE, including disability/vets.