Weekend Instrument Calibration Jobs in Minnesota

The Kenagy Lab (Department of Chemistry; https://kenagy.chem.umn.edu/) and the Millet Lab (Department of Soil, Water, and Climate; https://atmoschem.umn.edu) at the
University of Minnesota are seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to serve as a key contributor to the deployment of mass spectral instrumentation on a new mobile research laboratory focused on air composition, air quality, environmental justice, and emergency response for environmental concerns. The successful candidate will bring a strong foundation in atmospheric or environmental chemistry, chemical analysis, data processing and analysis, and dissemination.

This position is available immediately. The work schedule is typically MondayFriday, with occasional weekend days during deployment periods. Outside of deployment periods the work schedule has increased flexibility to balance the deployments.

This position is expected to be a 1 year postdoc position initially with possibility of renewal depending on funding.
Principal Position Functions:

40% Instrument Calibration, Operation, and Maintenance: This position will lead the operation of a chemical ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometer (CI-ToF-MS) for gas
analysis on the mobile laboratory and will assist with operating an aerosol chemical speciation monitor (ACSM) for particle composition analysis. They will work collaboratively with a Researcher who leads mobile lab coordination and operation, and a graduate student who will help with ACSM preparation prior to deployments.

40% Data Analysis: This position will lead the data processing and data analysis for the CI-ToF-MS and ACSM mass spectrometers.

20% Research Documentation, Dissemination, and Research Team Activities: Work with the PIs to plan and draft extramural research proposals and manuscripts reporting study results. Contribute to the preparation of presentations and other research communications. Participate in community events around air pollution and air quality education.

Required Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience:
PhD in atmospheric science, chemistry, environmental science, engineering, or a closely related field.
Hands-on experience with instrument calibration and operation.
Data analysis experience.
Proficiency in statistical data analysis and coding (e.g., Python, R).
Strong organizational skills with experience in laboratory operations.
Effective written and verbal communication skills.
Familiarity with standard laboratory safety practices.

Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience:
A strong publication record demonstrating independent research contributions.
Experience with mass spectrometry.
Experience preparing research documentation such as manuscripts, grant applications, or regulatory submissions.
A willingness to learn and expand skillset and research interests.
An interest in community-engaged research and education.
Previous experience mentoring or supervising trainees, particularly undergraduate students.

The Department of Chemistry at the University of Minnesota (UMN) provides a world-class education through classroom teaching and cutting-edge research. As a
central, core discipline in science and engineering, chemistry is critical for solving society's most important problems and making significant positive impacts on human health, energy, and the environment. The UMN Department of Chemistry has been a national and international leader throughout its history. A wide range of companies and academic institutions from across the world hire our graduates and collaborate with us on research. Department of Chemistry alumni have enormous societal impact as academicians, K-12 teachers, scientists and managers in industrial and government laboratories, lawyers, public policy advocates, entrepreneurs, and in a diverse array of other fields.

Soil, Water, and Climate (SWAC) is an administrative unit within the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS). The mission of the Department is to advance the understanding of Earth system processes and the interaction among land, atmosphere, and water. Through research, teaching, and outreach we seek to: improve and protect the quality of soil, air, and water resources in natural and managed ecosystems; enhance agricultural and forest productivity and sustainability; predict and mitigate impacts of environmental and climate change on ecosystems and society; and provide science based knowledge for improved decision making and a better informed citizenry.

Pay Range: $65,000; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Please visit the Benefits for Postdoctoral Candidates website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training
• Medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

Special Instructions:
Application materials must include a resume/CV, a cover letter, and the contact information for 3 professional/academic references. The cover letter should describe previous research experience, relevant expertise in environmental sciences or engineering fields, any experience with laboratory operations, and how this position fits into your long-term career goals.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to
complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume. Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.
To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

 

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission.  The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.  To learn more about diversity at the U:  http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.