Research Associate I Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Research Associate I or II
Job no: 508831
Position type: Full-Time 12-Month
Department: 061800 - Inst for Clean Energy Technology
Location: Main Campus - Starkville, MS
Categories: Professional
Position Open Date: Apr 16 2026
Position Function:
The individual filling this position will function at the professional research level and will collaborate with researchers involved in design and implementation of ASME NQA-1 qualified test systems for nuclear-grade HEPA filter testing and/or research. The individual will assist in the development of methods and procedures used by the research team, perform training of test personnel and/or analytical personnel, and ensure the QA/QC policies and procedures are followed. The individual may be responsible for supervising technicians and students that prepare for testing, collect test data, and perform data reduction and/or supervising technicians and students that perform analytical sampling, log analytical data, and analyze such data. Research activities may include developing publications and presentations for national conferences. Some travel may be required.
Salary Grade:
Please see Staff Compensation Structure or Skilled Crafts and Service Maintenance Compensation Schedule for salary ranges. For salary grade UC, these positions are "Unclassified" and salary ranges are determined by the hiring department.
Department Profile:
ICET has a multidisciplinary staff of chemists, physicists, computer scientists, and electrical and mechanical engineers. ICET also employs students, both graduate and undergraduate, who further support research operations. ICET scientists have leading-edge expertise in testing nuclear grade High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
This position will have a strong emphasis on evaluation of factors influencing performance of nuclear grade HEPA filters. All research activities are subject to stringent quality control. The individual filling this position will receive training in nuclear quality assurance requirements. The individual will report to a project principal investigator and will provide technical support for ICET research projects.
Essential duties and responsibilities may include:
• Assisting in development of test plans
• Assisting in writing test procedures
• Collecting test data
• Developing data reduction methods
• Performing data reduction
• Assisting in analyzing data
• Generating reports
• Verifying reports
• Training
• Operation of various measurement systems
• Calibration and maintenance of instruments and measurement systems
• Performing sample preparation methods, standard preps, etc.
• Performing analytical sampling and analysis
• Interacting in a collaborative manner with other team members to accomplish organizational goals
• Performing work under best practices guidelines
• Performing related duties as required
Successful candidates will:
• Oversee testing activities
• Ensure results are accurate and technically sound
• Become technically capable of explaining and discussing test results
• Report research findings to project sponsors and stakeholders
Minimum Qualifications:
1. Beginning with a bachelor's degree:
Research Associate I - Bachelor of Science in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) related field and demonstrated competence can begin work at the Research Associate I level.
Research Associate II - Bachelor of Science in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) related field and have a minimum of three years of relevant experience and the equivalent to a master's degree.
2. Beginning with a Master's degree:
Master of Science Degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) related field and a minimum of one year of relevant experience and demonstrated competency can begin work at the Research Associate II level.
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience in aerosol measurements techniques
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
1. Working knowledge of data reduction techniques
2. Excellent computer skills, including, but not limited to:
• Microsoft Office
• Adobe Acrobat
• Microsoft Windows
3. Excellent written and oral communication skills
4. Ability to interact effectively with other professionals
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
Testing is occasionally conducted continuously for up to 120 hours. Shift work may be required. Physical requirements include frequent walking and standing, and occasional reaching, climbing or balancing, stooping/kneeling/crouching, and lifting up to 50 pounds. Testing activities require assembly and disassembly of engineering scale test stands. This position will be responsible for assisting and/or safely coordinating these activities. The position may require the employee to work with hazardous materials or be in areas where radiation producing sources or chemicals are present. Employee is required to wear protective equipment.
Externally imposed deadlines that are set and revised beyond one's control. Interruptions influence priorities. It is often difficult to anticipate the nature or volume of work with certainty beyond a few days. Meeting of deadlines and coordination of unrelated activities are key to the position. Occasional exposure to demands and pressure from persons other than the immediate supervisor can be expected. Conflict-resolution or similar interactions involving emotional issues or stress may be experienced.
Instructions for Applying:
Link to apply: http://explore.msujobs.msstate.edu/
Apply online by submitting a cover letter and resume
Restricted Clause:
Position is contingent upon continued availability of funding.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
Mississippi State University is an equal opportunity institution. Discrimination is prohibited in university employment, programs or activities based on race, color, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, or any other status to the extent protected by applicable law. Questions about equal opportunity programs or compliance should be directed to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance, 231 Famous Maroon Band Street, P.O. 6044, Mississippi State, MS 39762, (662) 325-5839.
What do I do if I need an accommodation?
In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi State University, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at tel: (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu.
If you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human Resources Management at (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu. Upon request, sections of this job listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.
Advertised: Apr 16 2026 Central Daylight Time
Applications close:
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