Staff Scientist at The University of Chicago in Chicago, Illinois

Job Description:

Department

PSD Geophysical Sciences: Administration and Staff



About the Department

The Department of the Geophysical Sciences provides a vibrant venue in which scientists carry out research across several broad subject areas that span the past, present, and future evolution of the Earth, its life, and its cosmic environment. We pride ourselves in the innovative and interdisciplinary research of highly accomplished faculty, postdocs, graduate students, and undergraduates, all of whom push the boundaries of their respective fields. The Department supports a PhD program in Geophysical Sciences while offering undergraduate degrees in both Geophysical Sciences and Environmental Science and a master's degree in Environmental Science. These programs allow students to discover, learn, and share knowledge about the natural processes that have and continue to shape our world and other planetary bodies. The Department is committed to fostering an environment where individuals from all backgrounds can grow and become the unique scientists they wish to be.



Job Summary

The Department of Geophysical Sciences at the University of Chicago invites applications for a Staff Scientist position, working on physicochemical characterization of stratospheric aerosols with Professor Mingyi Wang. This project aims to investigate chemical mechanisms of aerosol nucleation and aging under the stratosphere conditions, characterize aerosol composition, mixing state, and optical properties, and derive accurate process-level parameterizations for integration into models. The staff scientist will be responsible for designing and executing controlled lab experiments, operating and maintaining state-of-the-art instrumentation, developing numerical models to interpret experimental data, and publishing findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at scientific conferences.
The expected start date is July 01, 2025



Responsibilities

• Design and execute controlled flow tube and smog chamber experiments


• Operate and maintain lab equipment, including mass spectrometer, particle sizing instrument, and gas analyzers


• Develop numerical models to interpret experimental data


• Provided support and supervision to graduate and undergraduate students to ensure compliance with experimental QA/QC and laboratory safety standards


• Keep organized written documentation of instrument logs, maintenance, and SOPs


• Performs experiments and collects and analyzes data.


• Participates in the promotion of a research project


• Participates in the preparation and writing of grant applications and reports, and co-authors/authors scientific research manuscripts. Provides peer review of grant applications and scientific manuscripts.


• Perform other duties and projects as needed

Minimum Qualifications




Education:

Minimum requirements include a PhD in related field.



Work Experience:

Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through

Certifications:




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Preferred Qualifications




Education:

• PhD in Atmospheric Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related fields

Experience:

• A minimum of three years of postdoctoral experience or equivalent


• Expertise in mass spectrometry and other aerosol measurement techniques


• Experience with aerosol optical modeling


• A strong track record of independent research and scientific communication

Preferred Competencies

• Mentoring and teaching junior group members


• Work autonomously, and without detailed instructions


• Takes initiative to optimize laboratory protocols and workflows


• Accuracy and attention to detail


• Troubleshooting and problem-solving skills


• Willingness and ability to learn new skills


• Foster an inclusive and positive learning environment for all students

Application Documents

• Resume/CV (required)


• Cover Letter which is to include your interest in this position (required)


• List of three professional references (required)

When applying, the document(s) MUSTbe uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.



Job Family

Research



Role Impact

Individual Contributor



Scheduled
Weekly Hours

37.5



Drug Test Required

No



Health Screen Required

No



Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required

No



Pay Rate Type

Salary



FLSA Status

Exempt



Pay Range

$60,000.00 - $70,000.00
The included pay rate or range represents the University's good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.



Benefits Eligible

Yes
The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.



Posting Statement



The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.


Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.


All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.


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