JOB SUMMARY 

The Organic Molecular and Stable Isotope Biogeochemistry Laboratory in the University of Connecticut Department of Earth Sciences is seeking a Postdoctoral Scientist to work on a multi-year NSF-funded project on organic molecular and geochemical records of Late Quaternary Western U.S. fire and climate. The successful candidate will join a team of scientists from multiple U.S. institutions and will participate in the development of monitoring, sampling, and organic molecular analyses of speleothems and cave deposits from across the Sierra Nevada of California.

The candidate will participate in field sampling in and around caves in the Sierra Nevada, will develop new analytical methods and procedures for organic molecular analysis of trace organics, will take a lead role in preparing and analyzing samples for compound-specific stable isotopes and GC/MS, and will meet virtually and in-person with team members at regular intervals. This position may include but does not require sampling in underground cave systems.

The UConn Stable Isotope and Organic Molecular Biogeochemistry Laboratory hosts a range of equipment for conventional and compound-specific stable isotope analyses including two MAT 253 Mass Spectrometers with GC- Isolink, EA and TC/EA, GC-FID and GC/MS/MS. More information on the laboratory and Department of Earth Sciences can be found at paleoclimate.geosciences.uconn.edu and www.earth.uconn.edu .

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS 

The position requires a Doctorate (Ph.D.) in Earth Sciences or a related discipline and experience with stable isotopes and organic geochemistry. The successful candidate will have prior hands-on experience with stable isotope instrumentation and an interest in developing new analytical techniques, and the ability to successfully work independently and as part of a research team.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS 

Preferred qualifications include hands-on laboratory experience with compound-specific stable isotopes and GC/MS. The ideal candidate has a strong background in both laboratory and field research, the ability to conduct field sampling in remote, mountainous regions, and a commitment to mentoring graduate and undergraduate students in the field/lab, research experience on paleoclimate and fire, experience operating and/or maintaining laboratory equipment, and a record of publishing their work in high-quality journals.

APPOINTMENT TERMS 

This is a 12-month, full-time position but may be extended annually for up to two additional years. Reappointment is contingent upon satisfactory performance and availability of funding. The anticipated appointment date is January 30, 2023, but candidates requiring an earlier or later start date will be considered. Salary range is commensurate with education and experience in accordance with NRSA rates.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

Employment of the successful candidate is contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment criminal background check.

TO APPLY 

Please apply online at https://hr.uconn.edu/jobs , Staff Positions, Search #496953 to upload a resume/CV, cover letter describing your qualifications for this position, and contact information for three (3) professional references. Contact Michael Hren hren@uconn.edu for additional information about the position. Review of applications will begin November 11, 2022, and continue until the position is filled. 

All employees are subject to adherence to the State Code of Ethics which may be found at http://www.ct.gov/ethics/site/default.asp .

The University of Connecticut is committed to building and supporting a multicultural and diverse community of students, faculty and staff. The diversity of students, faculty and staff continues to increase, as does the number of honors students, valedictorians and salutatorians who consistently make UConn their top choice. More than 100 research centers and institutes serve the University’s teaching, research, diversity, and outreach missions, leading to UConn’s ranking as one of the nation’s top research universities. UConn’s faculty and staff are the critical link to fostering and expanding our vibrant, multicultural and diverse University community. As an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity employer, UConn encourages applications from women, veterans, people with disabilities and members of traditionally underrepresented populations.