Research Scientist - Analytical Chemist (Pollution, Sensors and Waste) - [Archived Advertisement]

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The Opportunity

• Are you an expert in Analytical Chemistry?
• Key opportunity to lead an organic chemistry laboratory and science at our Perth site
• Join CSIRO – Australia’s premier scientific research organisation

The role of a Research Scientist is to conduct innovative research leading to scientific achievements that are aligned with CSIRO’s strategies. The Research Scientist may be engaged in scientific activity ranging from fundamental research to the investigation of specific industry or community problems. They will have the opportunity to build and maintain networks, play a lead role in securing project funds, provide scientific leadership and pursue new ideas and approaches that create new concepts. 

CSIRO Environment undertakes applied and strategic research for the public and private sectors, into definition, use and management of Australia's land and water resources. Over 1000 research and support staff operate from laboratories in Perth, Adelaide, Canberra, Griffith, Albury, Brisbane and Townsville.

We are seeking a capable and enthusiastic analytical/environmental chemist to be in Perth, Western Australia to support a diverse multi-disciplinary research team addressing the characterisation and remediation of contaminated groundwater and soils. Other research staff in the team and wider group include hydrogeologists, environmental chemists, soil scientists, geochemists, microbiologists, mathematicians, modellers, and other technical staff.

You would be primarily responsible for development, testing and documentation of analytical methods and designing experimental setups (i.e. simulating environmental weathering) for a range of organic (and some inorganic) compounds in laboratory generated and environmental samples - to track contaminants and their mineralisation/biodegradation products in the environment, to develop and calibrate new sensor technology and test the effectiveness of remediation strategies at laboratory and field scales. 

Your duties will include:

• Lead an organic chemistry laboratory and associated research and have the ability to direct and manage others.
• Apply research skills in the analysis of samples from soil and groundwater environments to gain an in-depth understanding of subsurface processes. 
• Conduct organic analyses of environmental samples using a range of GC, GC/MS, LC/MS, and HPLC equipment. 
• Produce analytical data and reports and international publications to a high standard. 
• Identify, service and troubleshoot analytical equipment.
• Conduct QA/QC for the analytical laboratory, identify sources sampling/processing/analytical errors.
• Develop, test and document new analytical methodologies for a range of organic (and inorganic when required) compounds in laboratory generated and environmental samples.
• Interact and advise field sampling campaigns to ensure sample integrity.
• Develop, design and undertake experiments to assess contaminant fate and test remediation options.
• Communicate research results to clients and the scientific community through oral and written reports and prepare documentation for patent applications (where relevant).
• Work collaboratively as part of a multi-disciplinary, research team to carry out tasks in support of CSIRO’s scientific objectives.
• Other duties as directed.

Location: Perth, WA
Salary:  AU$121,455 - AU$142,321, pa plus up to 15.4% superannuation
Tenure: Indefinite, Full-time
Reference: 93193

To be considered you will need:

Essential
Under CSIRO policy only those who meet all essential criteria can be appointed.

• This role requires you to hold a PhD (or Master’s or Honours Degree with an equivalent combination of qualifications and research experience) where the major component is related to organic analytical chemistry. 
• At least five years hands-on work or research experience in using a range of GC, GC/MS, LC/MS and HPLC equipment for analysis of environmental samples such as water, soil, air, biota and NAPLs.
• Evidence of research initiation and leadership and knowledge and experience in developing and implementing new organic analytical methods.
• Knowledge and experience in developing, designing and implementing new/novel experimental setups to simulate environmental processes.
• Ability to identify and troubleshoot analytical equipment problems.
• Experience in QA/QC and ability to identify sources of sampling/processing/analytical errors.
• Experience in analyses, interpretation and reporting of data to a high standard on-time.
• Experience in sample preparation prior to analysis.
• Experience with analytical, spreadsheet and word-processor software.
• Ability to work with limited supervision and cooperatively as part of a multi-disciplinary team.
• Evidence of initiative and the demonstrated ability to work independently.
• Understanding and commitment to Equal Employment Opportunity principles
• Current Class A driver’s licence.

Desirable

• Strong interest in environmental science.
• Interest in fieldwork and ability to liaise with field staff.
• Experience with computer database software.
• Experience with laboratory standards and protocols.

For full details about this role please review the Position Description.

Eligibility

Applications for this position are open to all candidates.  Appointment to this role is subject to provision of a national police check and may be subject to other security/medical/character requirements.

Flexible Working Arrangements

We work flexibly at CSIRO, offering a range of options for how, when and where you work. 

Diversity and Inclusion

We are working hard to recruit people representing the diversity across our society, and ensure that all our people feel supported to do their best work and feel empowered to let their ideas flourish. 

About CSIRO

At CSIRO Australia's national science agency, we solve the greatest challenges through innovative science and technology. We put the safety and wellbeing of our people above all else and earn trust everywhere because we only deal in facts. We collaborate widely and generously and deliver solutions with real impact. 

CSIRO is committed to values-based leadership to inspire performance and unlock the potential of our people.

CSIRO is committed to the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people involved in our activities and programs, whether we are undertaking research, engaging with the public or nurturing future scientists in person or online. Source – CSIRO Child Safe policy 2023

Join us and start creating tomorrow today!

How to Apply

Please apply on-line and provide a cover letter and CV that best demonstrate your motivation and ability to meet the requirements of this role.

Applications Close

Monday 2nd October, 11:00pm AEST