Research Assistant – Polymers Lab, Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Lafayette College

Description

The Polymers Laboratory within the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at Lafayette College invites applications for a full-time research assistant contributing to the research aims of an NSF CAREER grant centered in the area of stimuli-responsive and self-healing polymers offering enhanced safety, longer lifespan, and reduced environmental impact. The position is geared towards motivated individuals interested in pursuing an advanced degree in engineering, chemistry, materials science, medicine or related disciplines. The position entails research-related duties (conducting experiments, analyzing and sharing results, mentoring undergraduate researchers) and administrative duties (compiling order forms for supplies, documenting chemical waste, logging new chemicals in an inventory). This is a full-time, benefits-eligible, 12-month position.

Responsibilities:

• Design and execute experiments in conjunction with undergraduate researchers, record experimental details, analyze and interpret data, and present findings in oral and written formats

• Mentor undergraduate researchers, modeling safe lab practices and integrity in research

• Participate in individual and group meetings

• Support a collaborative, productive, and inclusive learning environment

• Compile order forms for needed supplies, document chemical waste, log new chemicals in inventory

• Other duties as assigned

 

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, materials science, chemistry or related disciplines.

• Basic laboratory skills and research experience (safe lab practices, data analysis, careful use of instrumentation, and commitment to honesty and research integrity).

• Interest in working with and mentoring undergraduate researchers.

• Ability to work effectively and coordinate with others on a team within a collaborative, supportive environment.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills

 

Application Instructions

Applications will be considered on a rolling basis until the position is filled. To apply, please submit the materials listed below:

• Cover letter

• CV

• Two letters of recommendation, one of which would ideally come from a faculty member or research advisor, and the contact information of the letter writers

Questions? Email Melissa Gordon, Associate Professor, Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering (gordonm@lafayette.edu)

This position is supported by the Polymers Program in the National Science Foundation Division of Materials Research under Grant DMR-2143146.

 

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Lafayette College does not discriminate, or permit discrimination, on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, disability, religion, age, military or veteran status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or familial status, pregnancy, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law in any educational programs and activities it operates, including admissions or employment, as required by Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972 (which requires that the College not discriminate on the basis of sex); the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (which require that the College not discriminate on the basis of disability); Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (which requires that the College not discriminate on the basis of race, color, or national origin); Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (which requires that the College not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin); the Age Discrimination Act of 1975 (which requires that the College not discriminate on the basis of age); and other applicable laws and College policies.  Individuals may report concerns or questions to the Director of Educational Equity/Title IX Coordinator.  Copies of relevant policies and procedures can be found at https://sash.lafayette.edu/policies-laws/.