What are the responsibilities and job description for the Research Assistant – Polymers Lab, Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering position at Lafayette College?
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.
- 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
- 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
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
Please submit application materials to: https://apply.interfolio.com/165195
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.
Lafayette is deeply committed to creating a diverse community, one that is inclusive and responsive and is supportive of each and all of its faculty, students, and staff. All members of the College community share in the responsibility for creating, maintaining, and developing a learning environment in which difference is valued, equity is sought, and inclusiveness is practiced. All Lafayette operations reflect the College’s commitment to Diversity, Equity, Access, and Inclusion (DEAI) initiatives, and Lafayette welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds.
