Chemical Analyst (research co-worker) ICP-MS

Do you have a strong background in analytical chemistry and are you interested in working as a Chemical Analyst (Research Assistant) in ocean research? Then the Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research (NIOZ) has an interesting job offer for you. Full-time appointment with prospect of a permanent contract on the beautiful island Texel.

THE VACANCY

We are seeking a motivated Chemical Analyst to join the department of Ocean Systems (OCS). As a research institute we are often operating at the cutting-edge of analytical chemistry and aim to remain at the international forefront of marine research and innovation, making teamwork among analysts and scientists essential to our success. If you have a passion for analytical chemistry and hands-on work with equipment, and want to be involved in exciting and innovative ocean research, we offer a great opportunity to work in a beautiful part of the Netherlands with a healthy work-life balance!

Job responsibilities:

• Preparation of marine samples (e.g. seawater water matrix removal and pre-concentration using SeaFAST, sediment digestions) in the geochemical Clean Laboratory.
• As part of the plasma analytical team, conduct and develop trace element (and isotopic) analysis in the ICP-MS Laboratory, which houses three Thermo Scientific ICP-MS instruments: iCAP-Q (quadrupole), Element-2 (single collector sector field) and Neptune (multi collector sector field). The focus will, in first instance be on the Element-2 analyses.
• Maintain and trouble-shoot equipment, coordinating services by service engineers.
• Support students and scientists in planning and preparation of experiments and analyses.
• Improve existing analytical techniques and innovation, both within OCS and in (inter)national consortia (for instance by participating in intercalibration efforts).

Flexibility and enthusiasm to learn new, or improve existing techniques is important. The work mostly takes place in the OCS laboratories, but you may also join sea-going expeditions for short periods of time to collect and analyze samples.

THE CANDIDATE

For this position, we are looking for a candidate with a strong affinity for analytical chemistry and the capabilities and flexibility to work both independently and as part of a team. The position offers a lot of flexibility and freedom to schedule tasks and collaboratively work on methods improvements, so a responsible attitude to time management is required. We look for an enthusiastic and proactive colleague who is eager to work in a diverse and multi-disciplinary team of technicians and scientists, always with a sharp eye for data quality. You respect and contribute to the safe and inclusive work environment of NIOZ.

The candidate has:

• Completed a Bachelor/HBO education in laboratory techniques or equivalent, preferably analytical chemistry
• Experience with ICP-MS would be great, but eagerness to learn is just as important. If needed, an Element-2 ICP-MS training course by the manufacturer can be offered.
• Strong organizing skills with flexibility to work in dynamic projects.
• A proactive and critical attitude to ensure optimal results.
• Interest in natural/ocean sciences.
• Good communication skills in Dutch and English. If your English skills are not great yet, that is not a problem as long as you are willing to learn.