A Research Assistant assists with a research program or project. Works in a variety of fields within science or the social sciences, in programs based at a university or research institution, or works on government or industry sponsored research projects. Conducts field or library research or recruits participants for a study; may also assist with legal research. Typically conduct research under the guidance of senior researchers or professors. These roles are often held by undergraduate or graduate students pursuing degrees in relevant fields, or individuals with relevant work experience.
Faculty Research Assistant-Calcium Carbonate Optimization
Summary & Additional Information We are seeking to fill a Faculty Research Assistant - Calcium Carbonate Optimization position for the National Science Foundation Convergence Accelerator program entitled SequestStar. Our vision for the Phase 2 Convergence Accelerator is to advance the SequestStar technology down the path to commercialization with significant input from end users. SequestStar will be an economically viable and environmentally-friendly biomanufacturing process. Bringing together microalgae and the waste streams of desalination plants, SequestStar will create calcium carbonate and algae products. During this project, we will create an Input-to-Product pilot system and simultaneously optimize microalgae bioproducts and precipitated calcium carbonate production. We are looking for people who enjoy working across disciplines in a large and diverse team to create new technologies with significant societal impact. Based at the Horn Point Laboratory, and mentored by Dr. Andrea Pain, the successful candidate will assist with experimental research, sampling running and quality control, data entry, data analysis and data management, and day-to-day running of Input-to-Product pilot system. Physical demands of the position include lifting buckets of water, moving equipment, and using moveable safely stairs. We are seeking well-qualified candidates with experience in analytical chemistry, laboratory management, and quality control. Experience in carbonate chemistry is not required but is preferred.
Required Qualifications:
A bachelor's degree is required at the beginning of the period of employment and a master's degree in chemistry, geochemistry, or a related discipline, is recommended. Experience working in a laboratory setting with focus on analytical chemistry is required, and laboratory management experience is highly desirable.
Required Application Materials:
(1) a cover letter describing relevant research experience, interests and goals, (2) a current CV or resume, and (3) contact information for three references.
Best Consideration Date:
September 7, 2026
Open Until Filled:
yes Department UMCES - Horn Point Laboratory Worker Sub-Type Faculty Regular Salary Range $48,000 to $53,000 at 100% FTE EEO Statement The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science is an equal opportunity employer. The Center's policies, programs, and activities are in conformance with pertinent Federal and State laws and regulations on nondiscrimination regarding race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, and disability. Inquiries regarding compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Title IX of the Educational Amendments; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973; and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990; or related legal requirements should be directed to the Assistant Vice President of Human Resources, Center Administration, 2020 Horns Point Rd, Cambridge, MD 21613.
