Date: February 2022
Title: Research Associate (Laboratory Research)
Department: EMAC
School: CSE
Location: Kent Hale Smith Bldg.
Supervisor Name and Title: Valentin Rodionov, Asst. Professor
POSITION OBJECTIVE
The Rodionov lab focuses on synthesis and characterization of polymers and carbon-based materials The Research Associate will execute research projects with the aim of depolymerization of polyolefins, characterization of small molecule products, and synthesis of novel carbon materials from small-molecule and polymer feedstocks. Under the guidance of the PI, the Research Associate is expected to work independently, design and plan projects, oversee collaborations, supervise students, and carry out research activities of an assigned project through completion. The Research Associate will utilize air-free techniques and common methods of instrumental characterization, such as NMR and GC-MS. The Research Associate will keep the PI informed of progress of research projects and provide recommendations on experimental design. The Research Associate will also present data and findings at lab and scientific meetings, seminars, prepare manuscripts, and contribute preliminary data for grant proposals.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
- Plan and execute experiments for research projects designed by the principal investigator and may design experiments independently and in collaboration with the PI. Assist with and coordinate experiments performed by other lab members, ensuring adequate resources, assisting with experimental design and analysis. Oversee progress of the research projects and provide regular progress reports to the PI; and provide input and recommendation to principal investigator regarding significant developments in research projects. Ensure the PI is informed about the results of lab members, and ensure the PI’s experimental strategy is explored by lab members and through independent experiments by the Research Associate. (71%)
- Conduct experiments to supply scientific information as part of a larger project. Studies involve but are not limited to analysis of small molecules, polymers, and extended carbon phases by NMR, GC-MS, XPS, and FT-IR. Maintain accurate records of data and provide findings and recommendations to the PI based on analysis. (5%)
- Assist the PI in and independently develop new techniques and protocols. Train lab members on new techniques. (5%)
- Mentor and train lab staff and graduate students; oversee research work and ensure pro jects are being completed according to the research plan. This will involve teaching other members of the lab techniques and scientific discovery methods, including students and post-docs. Assist and teach both established and new research techniques to other lab members to facilitate their experiments. Coordinate trainings for lab members with the EHS and others, as needed. (5%)
- Present data and findings at laboratory meetings and scientific meetings, seminars, etc. Prepare manuscripts and contribute preliminary data for grant proposals. (5%)
- Independently author research projects. Assemble data and make publication-quality figures from analyzed data. With the highest level of integrity and responsible conduct of research, participate in writing manuscripts as a first author and co-author for discoveries from research performed in the lab, together with the PI and other lab members. (2%)
- Assess, update, and develop new standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the lab. (2%)
- Operate laboratory equipment such as GC-MS instrument and solvent purification systems. Assist other lab members with general lab maintenance and help oversee and maintain inventory of scientific reagents. (5%)
NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
- Perform other duties as assigned.
CONTACTS
Department: Frequent contact with PI and lab members, may work with other faculty for collaboration of research projects, contact with administrative staff as needed
University: Regular/Occasional contact with other labs for collaboration, Regular/Occasional contact with the Animal Resource Center, Contact with other departments as needed
External: Supply vendors, other institutions, funding agencies, etc. as needed
Students: Undergraduate and graduate student employees working in the lab
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY
No direct supervisory responsibilities. Will train and provide oversight to lab staff and students.
QUALIFICATIONS
Experience: Minimum of 2 to 6 years of related postdoctoral experience required. Experience in preferred field(s) of study strongly preferred.
Education/Licensing: PhD in Chemistry.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS and ABILITIES
- Organic synthesis and air-free techniques (Schlenk line and glovebox operation).
- Experience with analyzing carbon-based materials (including those incorporating sp1 carbons)
- Excellent analytical skills. Ability to formulate findings and recommendations from the analysis.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills and interpersonal skills; must demonstrate the ability to effectively and professionally communicate and work with various individuals within and external to the University.
- Strong organization skills; ability to multi-task, prioritize, and meet deadlines. Must demonstrate attention to detail and accuracy, time management skills, and follow-through. Must be able to work under pressure and conform to shifting priorities, demands, and timeline.
- Effective leadership skills; ability to lead, train, work with, and elicit cooperation from team members and staff.
- Ability to work effectively independently and collaboratively within a team. Must be highly motivated, responsible, dependable, and a self-starter.
- Effective problem-solving skills; must demonstrate innovation and creativity, sound judgment, and good decision-making.
- Good computer skills, including database management. Ability to learn new programs as needed. Proficiency with ChemDraw and MestreNova.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Work will be performed in a well-equipped chemistry laboratory setting, and will include handling samples of polymers, carbon materials, and small-molecule compounds. The research will involve handling cryogens and volatile organic solvents.
DIVERSITY STATEMENT
In employment, as in education, Case Western Reserve University is committed to Equal Opportunity and Diversity. Women, veterans, members of underrepresented minority groups, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
Qualified applicants should send their CV to Dr. Valentin Rodionov @ vor2@case.edu