Assistant Core Scientist

Department: WCAS Chemistry
Salary/Grade: EXS/6

Job Summary:

IMSERC Assistant Core Scientist

The Integrated Molecular Structure Education and Research Center (IMSERC) in Northwestern University's Department of Chemistry is a shared instrumentation facility supporting research across disciplines. IMSERC provides access to a wide range of analytical platforms, including mass spectrometry (LC-MS, GC-MS), elemental analysis (ICP-MS/OES), crystallography, NMR, EPR, and related techniques.

The Assistant Core Scientist is a generalist technical position supporting multiple service lines within IMSERC. While this role will initially focus on ICP-MS/OES and LC-MS sample preparation and routine instrument and laboratory support, it is expected to evolve over time to assist across other Core technologies as operational needs require. IMSERC operates within an academic research environment where workflows may be based on established Core procedures, investigator-provided methods, or adaptations of published protocols. The successful candidate will be comfortable executing structured laboratory workflows while working collaboratively with senior staff to support the continued development and consistency of Core procedures. This position is ideal for a candidate who enjoys hands-on laboratory work, values cross-training, and is interested in supporting diverse analytical workflows within a collaborative Core environment.

This is a full-time position (37.5 hours per week) working primarily onsite in Evanston, Illinois. Limited flexibility may be discussed during the interview process. The target hiring range for this position is $56,800 - $79,000 per year. Final offered salary will be determined based on the candidate's education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data.

Specific Responsibilities:

• Perform ICP-MS/OES, LC-MS, and GC-MS sample preparation in alignment with established Core workflows, investigator requests, and published methods adapted for Core operations.
• Conduct routine instrument quality checks and preventative maintenance to ensure reliable and consistent operation within a shared academic Core environment.
• Maintain clear and consistent documentation of laboratory activities, instrument performance, and sample tracking to support reproducibility and operational continuity.
• Support researchers in sample submission, routine data acquisition, and adherence to Core operating procedures.
• Assist with laboratory operations across multiple IMSERC service lines, including mass spectrometry, elemental analysis, and other analytical platforms as needed.
• Participate in cross-training activities to broaden technical skillsets within the Core facility.
• Maintain laboratory inventory and ensure compliance with safety policies.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support evolving Core operations.

Miscellaneous

Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Successful completion of a full 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor's or higher degree; OR appropriate combination of education and experience.
• 2 years of relevant domain expertise;
• 4 years of technical or other relevant experience.

Minimum Competencies:

• Effective verbal and written communication as well as data presentation skills.
• Working knowledge of experimental design principles.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow established protocols.
• Ability to maintain accurate documentation and laboratory records.
• Demonstrated willingness to learn and support multiple analytical platforms.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Ability to execute structured laboratory workflows while developing increasing independent operational judgment within a collaborative Core environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Hands-on experience with LC-MS, GC-MS, ICP-OES, or ICP-MS instrumentation.
• Experience performing biological, environmental, or chemical sample preparation.
• Experience working in an academic or shared instrumentation laboratory environment.
• Interest in expanding technical expertise across multiple analytical techniques.
• Comfort working in an academic research environment where methods may evolve based on investigator and emerging

Benefits:
At Northwestern, we are proud to provide meaningful, competitive, high-quality health care plans, retirement benefits, tuition discounts and more! Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/index.html to learn more.

Work-Life and Wellness:
Northwestern offers comprehensive programs and services to help you and your family navigate life's challenges and opportunities, and adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles.
We support flexible work arrangements where possible and programs to help you locate and pay for quality, affordable childcare and senior/adult care. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/work-life/index.html to learn more.

Professional Growth & Development:
Northwestern supports employee career development in all circumstances whether your workspace is on campus or at home. If you're interested in developing your professional potential or continuing your formal education, we offer a variety of tools and resources. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/learning/index.html to learn more.

Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected characteristics, including disability and veteran status. View Northwestern's non-discrimination statement. Job applicants who wish to request an accommodation in the application or hiring process should contact the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance. View additional information on the accommodations process.

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