What are the responsibilities and job description for the Postdoctoral Researcher, Experimental Aerosol Optics position at Desert Research Institute?
Thank you for your interest in employment with the Desert Research Institute. We want your application process to go smoothly and quickly. We ask that you keep in mind the following when completing your application: Once you start the application process you cannot save your work. Please ensure you have all required attachment(s) available to complete your application before you begin the process. Required attachments are listed below on the posting. Your application will not be considered without the required attachments. Please see the application instructions under each posting for information on submittal deadlines. If you need assistance or have questions regarding the application process, contact Human Resources Hotline at (775) 673-7431 or recruit@dri.edu. Job Description The Desert Research Institute’s (DRI) Division of Atmospheric Sciences (DAS) is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to contribute to an interdisciplinary experimental research program focused on aerosol light scattering, dust entrainment and transport processes into the atmosphere, and the microphysical and chemical characterization of dust aerosol particles. The successful candidate will be involved in both the execution and coordination of laboratory and field experiments, data analysis, and collaborative research efforts. The postdoc will have the opportunity to develop his/her own research while collaborating with other participants and coordinating the experimental work. The research activities associated with this position will build the knowledge base related to aerosol light scattering, optics, and physical and chemical characterizations. The successful candidate will collaborate broadly with DRI, University of Wyoming (UW), and University of Oklahoma (OU) faculty. Depending on performance, candidates hired as Postdoc may have an opportunity for direct promotion to Assistant Research Professor. This position is located at DRI’s Northern Nevada Science Center in Reno, NV. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS A Ph.D. in physics, chemistry, optics, engineering, or a closely related discipline from an accredited institution. Demonstrated experimental expertise in the use of lasers and optical systems and aerosol characterization. Exhibited ability to work collaboratively with others in an interdisciplinary environment. Demonstrated ability to publish in the peer-reviewed scientific literature. Excellent written and oral communication skills. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS Experience in atmospheric chemistry and minerology. Experience in initiating, planning, and obtaining funding. Technical skills in X-ray diffraction and electron microscopy. Experience with student supervision and mentoring. CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT Able to travel as required, work extended hours in the field (often in remote locations), and, able to hand carry field equipment and collected samples (up to 40 lbs.) across variable terrain. Ability to conduct sampling/data collection in the field using various aerosol sampling equipment. Salary/Benefits The minimum annual starting salary for the Postdoctoral Researcher is $65,000. Final salary is commensurate with experience and education. DRI offers a benefits package that includes health, dental, vision, and life insurance, 12 paid holidays, educational benefits, the option to participate in a flexible spending account or health savings account, and a retirement plan that is beyond compare. Postdocs receive a 6.2% retirement contribution match, 15 annual leave days, and a beginning balance of 15 sick leave days. You are 100% vested in the retirement plan on your first day. Additionally, there is no state income tax in Nevada and no social security deduction. Additional information can be found at www.dri.edu/careers. This position may be eligible for relocation assistance dependent on division funding. Organizational Summary DRI is a recognized world leader in basic and applied environmental research. Committed to scientific excellence and integrity, DRI faculty, students/postdocs who work alongside them, and staff have developed scientific knowledge and innovative technologies in research projects around the globe. Since 1959, DRI’s research has advanced scientific knowledge on topics ranging from humans’ impact on the environment to the environment’s effect on humans. DRI’s cutting-edge science and inspiring solutions support Nevada’s diverse economy, provide science-based educational opportunities, and inform policymakers, business leaders, and community members. With campuses in Las Vegas and Reno, DRI serves as the non-profit research arm of the Nevada System of Higher Education. Promotion Potential and Career Progression Postdocs and early career faculty are provided with considerable support and mentoring to give them every opportunity to be successful in a research career. Incumbents will have the opportunity to participate in both formal and informal early career mentoring programs provided by DRI Human Resources. DRI postdoctoral research positions have long served as the first step to a successful research career at DRI and at other institutions. Postdoctoral researchers hired from this posting may be eligible for promotion to regular faculty (Assistant Research Professor) upon the successful completion of their postdoc. To support the postdoc in working towards this goal, DAS will provide professional development support for the incumbent to begin to develop their own research program as a postdoc. DRI postdocs are eligible to serve as PIs on research grants, and the incumbent will be encouraged to collaborate with colleagues across DRI and at other institutions. Promotion from Postdoctoral Researcher to Assistant Research Professor can occur when the Postdoctoral Researcher demonstrates the ability to develop and sustain their own funding. DRI faculty are supported through competitive grants and contracts with external funding agencies, and faculty therefore have access to considerable administrative support and an Institute-wide entrepreneurial approach to maintaining success in developing funding programs. DRI has been successful in using this model to create scientific breakthroughs and applied science solutions to some of the most challenging problems facing the nation and the world for over 60 years. DRI is a research-focused institution and teaching and advising of graduate students is not required but is possible through the Graduate Schools at the University of Nevada, Reno and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. ExemptYes Full-Time Equivalent 100.0% Required Attachment(s) Please upload the following documents in the specified section: Cover letter detailing how your experience and professional qualifications prepare you to succeed in this role at DRI. Current resume Contact information for three professional references, to be contacted at the appropriate phase of the recruitment process based on applicant permission. SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR INTERNAL NSHE CANDIDATES DRI employees or employees within the Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) MUST use the “Browse Jobs” report within Workday to find and apply for jobs at DRI and other NSHE Institutions. Once you log into Workday, type "Browse Jobs" in the search box which will navigate to the internal job posting site. Locate this specific job posting by typing the job requisition number, “R0148854” in the search box. Qualified individuals are encouraged to apply immediately to receive full consideration. This posting will remain open until the position is filled, but hiring may occur at any time. Recruitment will close without notice when a hiring decision has been made. For more detailed information about DRI, please visit us at www.dri.edu. For questions regarding this position or assistance with your application, please email jobs@dri.edu or call the recruiting office at 775-673-7431. Posting Close Date Note to Applicant Applicants should fully describe their qualifications and experience with specific reference to each of the minimum and preferred qualifications. The search committee will use this information during the initial review of application materials. References will be contacted at the appropriate phase of the recruitment process based on applicant notification and permission. Newly hired faculty and postdoctoral fellows must assure that their official transcript is submitted to the Human Resources Office within 30 calendar days from the effective date of employment. Academic degrees must have been awarded by regionally accredited institutions. This position may require a criminal background check to be conducted on the candidate(s) selected for hire. As part of the hiring process, applicants for positions in the Nevada System of Higher Education may be required to demonstrate the ability to perform job-related tasks. DRI employs only U.S. citizens and aliens authorized to work in the U.S. DRI only sponsors aliens applying for research faculty or postdoctoral fellow positions (J-1 or H-1B Visas). All applicants hired by the Desert Research Institute are subject to E-Verify. Welcome to the Desert Research Institute (DRI), we are excited to see your interest in our research, administrative, and staff positions. This unique entrepreneurial setting enables innovative, and results driven individuals to accomplish world renowned achievements. Since 1959, DRI has stood at the forefront of understanding Earth's complex environmental systems, promoting preservation of diverse ecosystems, advancing responsible natural resource management, and improving human health and welfare throughout Nevada and around the world. Research at DRI calls on the expertise and methods of multiple scientific disciplines. More than 400 highly-skilled scientists, engineers, technicians, students and staff on two main campuses in Reno and Las Vegas, Nevada, are collaboratively focused on understanding and answering critical questions about water quality and availability, air quality, sustainability of desert lands, life in extreme environments, and more. DRI ranks high in research and development expenditures in environmental sciences. DRI is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment free of discrimination without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, citizenship, age (40 or older), disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. DRI employs only U.S. citizens and persons lawfully authorized to work in the United States. Additionally, we comply with all applicable state laws and DRI takes measures consistent with Title IX to ensure the safety and wellbeing of its students, faculty and staff. EEO/Title IX website Jennifer Schultz Title IX Coordinator/Director of Human Resources 2215 Raggio Parkway Reno, NV 89512 (775) 673-7317 jennifer.schultz@dri.edu The Desert Research Institute does not discriminate on the basis of sex in any education program or activity that it operates. Non-discrimination on the basis of sex is mandated by Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (20 U.S.C. §§ 1681 et seq.) and the corresponding implementation regulations (34 C.F.R. Part 106). The Institute’s commitment to nondiscrimination in its education programs and activities extends to applicants for employment. Inquiries concerning the application of these provisions may be referred to: Jennifer Schultz, Title IX Coordinator, Desert Research Institute, 2215 Raggio Parkway, Northern Nevada Science Building, Room 112, Reno, NV 89512, Telephone: (775) 673-7317; Email: jennifer.schultz@dri.edu; to The Assistant Secretary of the United States Department of Education, U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, 400 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20202-1100; Telephone: 1-800-421-3481 FAX: 202-453-6012; TDD: 1-800-877-8339; Email: OCR@ed.gov; or to both. Information pertaining to the Institute's grievance procedures and grievance process, including how to report or file a complaint of sex discrimination, how to report or file a formal complaint of sexual harassment, and how the Institute will respond can be found here. If you need any accommodations to complete an application, please contact Human Resources at jobs@dri.edu or (775) 673-7431. Information regarding security, personal safety, fire safety, and crime statistics can be found at DRI's Public and Personal Safety page. NSHE Employees are required to participate in a mandatory retirement plan in lieu of Social Security. As a result, employment at NSHE may impact your Social Security benefits. Additional information is available at SSA 1945. Job postings are specific to the Nevada System of Higher Education.
Salary : $65,000