Research Assistant I

Job Summary

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) is currently searching for a part-time laboratory assistant to join the Geology & Geophysics Department. The initial appointment will be for a one-month period, with possible extension(s)
contingent on performance and funding.

Job Description

Essential Functions

• Prepare seafloor rock samples for geochemical analysis, including sample mounting, polishing, documentation, and related laboratory preparation tasks.

• Conduct analyses using secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS), electron microprobe analysis (EPMA), and laser-ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS).

• Process, quality-check, organize, and interpret analytical data.

• Maintain accurate records of sample preparation procedures, analytical conditions, results, and data-processing workflows.

• Collaborate with researchers at WHOI, IPGP, and Bowling Green State University to support project goals.

• Assist with troubleshooting analytical methods, instrument workflows, and data-quality issues.

• Contribute to the preparation of figures, tables, reports, presentations, and manuscripts as needed.

• Follow established laboratory safety protocols and contribute to maintaining a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment.

Education & Experience

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in geology, geochemistry, earth sciences, chemistry, materials science, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Experience preparing geological or mineral samples for laboratory analysis.

• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow established laboratory procedures.

• Ability to organize, process, and maintain scientific datasets.

• Strong communication skills and ability to work collaboratively in a multi-institutional research environment.

Preferred:

• Hands-on experience with one or more of the following techniques: SIMS, EPMA, and/or LA-ICP-MS.

• Experience working with seafloor rocks, mantle rocks, oceanic lithosphere samples, or other geological materials.

• Familiarity with geochemical data processing, quality control, and data visualization.

• Experience using scientific software or programming tools for data analysis.

• Prior experience in an academic, research, or analytical laboratory setting.

Additional Job Requirements

Salary Range:

Research Assistant I: $22.08/hr - $28.33/hr

The salary range provided for this position reflects the expected minimum and maximum base pay for new hires. Actual level placement and compensation will be determined based on factors such as relevant skills, experience, and qualifications, as well as internal equity and market conditions. In addition to base salary, eligible employees also receive a comprehensive benefits package.

Special Requirements

• Must be able to work safely in a laboratory environment.

• May require occasional travel to collaborating institutions or analytical facilities.

• Must be able to handle geological samples and perform detailed benchwork for extended periods.

Physical Requirements

Physical duties may include working at a laboratory bench, handling small samples and laboratory equipment, using microscopes or analytical workstations, and performing repetitive fine-motor tasks associated with sample preparation. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

WHOI accepts applications on a rolling basis - applications will be reviewed as they are received, and we encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible to ensure full consideration. While we will continue to review applications until the position is filled, and early applicants may have an advantage in the selection process.

EEO Statement

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. 

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.