Hiring a Senior Lab Specialist in the Materials Research Center (MRC) will significantly enhance the centers productivity and its ability to achieve strategic goals. Serving all AUS faculty members, students, and researchers, the center's infrastructure supports the materials science and engineering PhD program, as well as related graduate and undergraduate students from all colleges. This specialist will bring advanced technical expertise, ensuring that high-end equipment is maintained, calibrated, and operated efficiently, minimizing downtime and maximizing research throughput. By providing hands-on training, troubleshooting, and support for researchers, the specialist will enhance the quality and reliability of experimental results, allowing researchers to focus on innovation and discovery rather than operational challenges.Additionally, the Senior Lab Specialist will foster collaboration by supporting multidisciplinary research and strengthening partnerships with external stakeholders. Their role in mentoring PhD students and research staff will accelerate the pace of research, leading to impactful publications and enhanced capacity building. By maintaining a safe and compliant lab environment and introducing optimized workflows, this position will bolster the MRCs reputation as a hub for cutting-edge materials science research and innovation, aligning with its mission to drive interdisciplinary collaboration and impactful outcomes.Job Responsibilities
Execute experiments as outlined in assigned research projects.
Manage the daily operation of XRD, SEM, and associated spectrometers.
Synthesize materials in the form of powder, bulk, or thin films.
Assist in measuring the physical and chemical properties of materials, including metals, alloys, polymers, and ceramics.
Maintain furnaces and thin film deposition systems.
Operate laboratory equipment and maintain detailed records of experiments, observations, and results.
Ensure the lab remains clean, organized, and well-maintained.
Implement and uphold safety procedures to maintain a secure work environment.
Manage lab inventory by tracking supplies and coordinating procurement as needed.
Work collaboratively with faculty and researchers while mentoring and supervising students involved in research projects.
Keep detailed maintenance logs for all equipment under supervision, addressing issues promptly to ensure proper functionality.
Offer training and mentorship to new lab members and students to build their technical skills and knowledge.
Qualifications and Skills Required
PhD in a discipline relevant to materials science (Physics, Chemistry, Mechanical or Chemical Engineering).
Experience in the operation of X-ray diffractometers and goniometer design.
Experience in Rietveld analysis and refinement of advanced materials.
Hands-on experience with scanning probe microscopy.
Excellent analytical and interpretative skills for data analysis and investigations.
Minimum of three years experience in research laboratories.
Familiarity with nanomaterials synthesis methods.
Experience and demonstrated technical expertise in sophisticated machines and instruments commonly used in applied science and engineering research.
Hands-on expertise, oral and written communication skills, and strong analytical and computational abilities are required.
Preferred Qualifications and Skills
Previous work in research core facilities within the relevant sciences or engineering disciplines.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should fill out the
. * AUS alumni are encouraged to apply. Applicants who do not meet specified requirements will not be shortlisted. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
AUS is an equal opportunity employer. We adhere to a policy of making employment decisions without regard to race, color, age, gender, religion, national origin, disability or marital status. Opportunities for employment are based solely upon ones qualifications.