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POSITION PURPOSE:

The Research Associate I assists all levels of scientists in the TD Department. Expectations are that the Research Associate I must be able to read and understand experiment protocols written by the scientists or by industry literature. Experiments generally involve mimicking all industrial process steps on a lab bench and pilot plant scale. These process steps include enzyme catalyzed reactions, aerobic and anaerobic fermentations, evaporation and distillation. The Research Associate will work together with the TD Team, by practicing good team behavior.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND BASIC DUTIES:

• Perform all laboratory tasks for projects and products using good laboratory practices and collaborating with team members. Comply with ICM and OSHA safety regulations.
• Maintain a comprehensive MSDS file and perform safety equipment checks on a scheduled basis; make corrections when necessary.

• Review and run experimental laboratory protocols including but not limited to ethanol fermentation trials using microorganisms, primarily yeasts, but also bacteria and fungi.
• Perform culture, plating and counting of bacteria.
• Operate computer based HPLC, pH meters, water baths, temperature controlled shake flask incubators, moisture balance, microscope, autoclave, Karl Fisher, density meter and other laboratory equipment required by the protocol or requested by the supervisor.
• Maintain laboratory records, including lab notebook.

• Keep lab area clean and orderly at all times, ready for client visits to the laboratory, scheduled and unscheduled.
• Follow proper procedures and documentation for waste disposal.
• Maintain laboratory quality management program.
• Responsible for timely data entry into common computer programs such as Microsoft Excel, MS Word, and ICM’s LIMS.
• Perform inventory of general lab supplies and keep laboratory stocked and operating within budget.
• Responsible for production of safe animal food and adherence to internal policies and procedures to ensure compliance with Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA).

Education/Certification:

• Bachelor degree in natural science, biological science, microbiology or chemistry preferred
• Associates in Science degree or trade school required

Required Knowledge & Experience:

• 1-3 years’ related experience
• Knowledge of grain or cellulose based ethanol production is preferred
• Experience working with laboratory instrumentation including: HPLC, pH probe, spectrophotometer, microscope, ovens, microbiology techniques preferred
• Experience working with LIMS preferred
• Knowledge of environmental requirements of operating a laboratory preferred
• Exceptional computer skills, including strong knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and general office equipment

Skills/Abilities:

• Highly self-motivated, self-directed, and attentive to detail
• Ability to effectively prioritize and execute tasks in a high-pressure environment
• Strong analytical, organizational, and personal skills
• Ability to work in a team-oriented, collaborative environment