Sr. Research Analytical Chemist - Spectroscopy

Summary

The successful candidate will assist the R & D Analysis Lab Manager in providing technical analytical leadership in areas of molecular and atomic spectroscopy and will research and develop new analytical processes related to the conversion of aqueous solutions of biomass-derived compounds to fuels and chemicals. Responsibilities include the design, experimentation and validation of new procedures for implementation and evaluation of existing methods in the Analysis Lab. The position will interact effectively with researchers and engineers to develop testing protocols and analyses for lab, pilot and commercial scale reactor systems. Information on project findings will be shared through oral presentations and written documentation.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

1. Work effectively with teams of engineers, chemists, technicians, and analysis lab management to design new assays and/or solve issues with current analytical procedures.
2. Understand existing analytical methods at Virent and identify new capabilities.
3. Contribute to the daily operations of the Analysis Lab.
4. Provide oversight to the validation of analytical assays.
5. Provide coaching and training to chemists and technicians in the development and execution of analyses.
6. Make recommendations on the procurement of new equipment.
7. Interface with analytical laboratories of collaborators and customers.
8. Work with Catalyst Group on characterization of catalytic materials when appropriate.
9. Maintain lab notebooks, prepare presentations, and submit written reports of results and future plans.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities necessary to perform essential functions

1. Broad knowledge of theory and application of IR, UV-Vis, NMR, ICP, AA, and Raman spectroscopy, with various sampling techniques and hyphenated methodologies.
2. Proficiency with MS Office and various instrumentation software packages.
3. Strong oral and written communication skills.
4. Demonstrated ability to generate written experimental plans and technical reports.
5. Able to accept responsibility and follow through on multiple tasks simultaneously to completion.
6. Able to function efficiently in a fast paced, rapidly evolving environment.
7. Able to adopt an applications-oriented, hands-on focus.
8. Capable of effective oral and written communication.
9. Ability to gather information and make decisions in a timely manner.
10. Skills to review literature and adapt analytical methods to Virent needs.
11. Desire to work in a high-risk start-up company with a heavy emphasis on development.
12. Creativity and a willingness to express ideas.
13. Demonstrated ability to identify hurdles early and find workable solutions.