Description
The Faculty of Science invites applications for a X-ray Spectroscopist. This Full-time Fixed Term position is for approximately 36 months (based on length of grant funding), with the possibility of extension.
This position requires a very broad and high level of technical and professional expertise in the specialized area of X-ray spectroscopy. The primary purpose of the position is to provide technical assistance to researchers in the preparation of samples for X-ray spectroscopy analysis; the collection of data; analysis of X-ray spectroscopy results; assistance in the preparation of research results for publications and presentations; training of researchers in the techniques and procedures of X-ray spectroscopy analysis; maintenance and assistance in upgrading of instruments, accessories, and software (including assisting in the preparation of grant applications) which are needed for a modern X-ray spectroscopy instrumental suite; safe handling of chemicals (samples, compressed gases, and solvents); and minimizing and tracking exposure to X-ray radiation in the LINX facility.
Provides expert advice, analyses, direction, and training to the research, service missions, and teaching of Faculty of Science's faculty, staff, students, and researchers. The role ensures the goals of the Laboratory for in-operando X-ray spectroscopy (LINX) Facility are aligned with the vision of the Faculty of Science's Core Facilities, Faculty and University, and the Directors of the LINX. Effectively manages the X-ray spectroscopy (herein X-ray spectroscopy encompasses X-ray absorption spectroscopy, X-ray emission spectroscopy, and Mossbauer spectroscopy) services in consultation with the the Directors of the LINX and the Advisory Committee.
Effective mentorship and supervision of technical staff who are an integral part of the LINX Facility. The incumbent will assist and collaborate with faculty members on various research projects and be involved with the development of new methodology.. This role requires a high level of technical expertise in the acquisition and analysis of X-ray absorption and emission spectroscopy data.
This position reports to the Manager of Core Services.
Summary of Key Responsibilities (job functions include but are not limited to):
TECHNICAL OPERATIONS/MAINTENANCE/CONSULTING:
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Support and augment the understanding of Instrumentation usage by graduate / undergraduate students and postdoctoral fellows.
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Analyze samples for X-ray absorption or emission spectroscopy, Mossbauer spectroscopy, X-ray microscopy for clients in a timely manner.
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Manage LINX Facility instrument booking through online system.
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Ensure both maintenance and preventative maintenance schedules for all instruments in the LINX Facility are followed and up to date.
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Must be familiar with the assembly and operation of in-operando X-ray absorption spectroscopy experiments.
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Ensure instruments are well calibrated, fully operational and users are trained properly for obtaining experimental data to complete their research projects.
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Maintain a high level of expertise with continuous upgrading of technical skills and knowledge in the field of chemical analyses in the evolving fields of XANES, EXAFS, XES, CT-XRM, Mossbauer spectroscopy, etc.
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Use the available resources to independently pursue excellence in developing new methods and protocols in Instrumentation usage.
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Ensure facility policies are properly written, documented, shared and followed by all users of the core facilities and services.
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Ensure user data is easily accessible, backed up on a monthly basis, and held for proper retention times.
COMMUNICATION/RELATIONSHIP BUILDING:
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Courteous and professional manner in dealing with management, faculty, staff and students.
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Maintain and foster a strong working relationship with the Core Facilities team and with other members of the Faculty of Science.
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Positive relationships and productive liaisons are promoted and maintained with other units on campus and externally.
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Provide assistance and/or supervision of X-ray spectroscopy users.
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Accommodate requests for various analyses in consultation with other members of the department.
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External enquires are handled in a timely and positive manner.
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Interdepartmental billing for internal clients and invoice generation for external clients.
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Identify professional development needs and skill priorities.
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Continue personal development, learning and training.
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Keep current with postsecondary strategies and operations.
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Adhere to all university policy and regulatory requirements, including AITA and POPA.
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Participate in cross-training to assist in other areas when needed and to meet Core Facilities & Services and overall Faculty of Science priorities.
FINANCIAL:
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Order supplies, materials, and consumables for the Facility.
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Establish and annually review fee for service (collaboratively with Core Facilities management and Academic Advisors of the Facility).
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Complete monthly billing process for clients in collaboration with Business Operations group.
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Establish legal agreements with external clients.
SAFETY:
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Within the area of responsibility, implement and ensure compliance with the OHS/EHS Policy and relevant legislation. Including:
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Provide help in training and supervision of operators in the safe and proper use of instrumentation.
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Ensure users are properly informed about the safety aspects of working with X-rays and high vacuum systems.
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Knowing and understanding the components of the OHSMS/EHSMS that apply to their areas of responsibility.
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Communicating and reinforcing the OHS/EHS policy and the components of the OHSMS/EHSMS that apply to their areas of responsibility.
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Complying with the components of the OHSMS/EHSMS that apply to their areas of responsibility.
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Implementing the components of the OHSMS/EHSMS that apply to their areas of responsibility into the unit-specific standard operating procedures.
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Ensuring the health, safety and welfare of facility users.
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Ensuring facility users are aware of their rights and duties under the law and are aware of any health and safety hazards.
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Providing/being competent supervisors, training users, and preventing violence and harassment.
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Ensuring public safety at or in the vicinity of work sites.
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Working with the joint work site health and safety committee or health and safety representative.
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Reporting all environment, health and safety concerns.
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Using all devices and wearing all appropriate PPE and dosimeters (when required).
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Refraining from causing or participating in violence and harassment, and.
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Complying with relevant legislation.
Qualifications / Requirements:
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PhD degree in Chemistry (or related field) required.
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Minimum 5 years of directly related experience.
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Both theoretical and practical experience with X-ray absorption spectroscopy (near-edge and extended fine structure), X-ray emission spectroscopy, Mossbauer spectroscopy, and/or X-ray microscopy. Knowledge of data analysis software (e.g. Demeter, Win XAS, FEFF).
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Must have experience with safe operating procedures when working with X-rays, high voltages, cryogens, and high vacuum systems.
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Knowledge of scientific laboratory research and instructional activities, instrumentation and associated maintenance and infrastructure requirements.
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Knowledge of publication standards and the preparation of required documents associated with reporting spectroscopic data.
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Demonstrated ability to maintain currency in their field, broadly defined.
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Excellent interpersonal and communications skills required.
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Proven organizational skills, multitasking and high attention to detail required.
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Ability to think critically and creatively under pressure while exercising sound judgement and discretion required.
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Must be a safety ambassador and prioritize safety in the workplace for self and others.
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Demonstrated ability to be resourceful, creative, innovative, and flexible required.
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Ability to work independently to tight timelines, maintain confidentiality and deal effectively with overlapping and changing deadlines is required.
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Advanced Computer skills including MS Office Suite (including Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Excel) required.
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Knowledge of university policies and procedures is an asset.
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Ability to build relationships to accomplish goals with a diverse group within and outside of the Faculty of Science essential.
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Must possess or be prepared to obtain certification in WHMIS.
Having, or being prepared to obtain valid First Aid certification is an asset.
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Application Deadline: Open until Position is filled.
We would like to thank all applicants in advance for submitting their resumes. Please note, only those candidates chosen to continue on through the selection process will be contacted.
This position is part of the AUPE bargaining unit, and falls under the Technical Job Family, Phase 3.
For a listing of all management and staff opportunities at the University of Calgary, view our Management and Staff Careers website.
About the University of Calgary
UCalgary is Canada's entrepreneurial university, located in Canada's most enterprising city. It is a top research university and one of the highest-ranked universities of its age. Founded in 1966, its 36,000 students experience an innovative learning environment, made rich by research, hands-on experiences and entrepreneurial thinking. It is Canada's leader in the creation of start-ups. Start something today at the University of Calgary. For more information, visit ucalgary.ca.
The University of Calgary has launched an institution-wide Indigenous Strategy ii' taa'poh'to'p committing to creating a rich, vibrant, and culturally competent campus that welcomes and supports Indigenous Peoples, encourages Indigenous community partnerships, is inclusive of Indigenous perspectives in all that we do.
The university's commitment to the Indigenous Strategy is evident through the oversight of 18 Elders serving on the Circle of Advisors and the many unit-based circles working towards implementation of the strategy including the Faculty Advisory Circle and teams such as the Office of Indigenous Engagement, the Writing Symbols Lodge, and the Indigenous Research Support Team. Many Indigenous-based events and processes are impacting curriculum, programming and polices at the University of Calgary.
As an equitable and inclusive employer, the University of Calgary recognizes that a diverse staff/faculty benefits and enriches the work, learning and research experiences of the entire campus and greater community. We are committed to removing barriers that have been historically encountered by some people in our society. We strive to recruit individuals who will further enhance our diversity and will support their academic and professional success while they are here. In particular, we encourage members of the designated groups (women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, members of visible/racialized minorities, and diverse sexual orientation and gender identities) to apply. To ensure a fair and equitable assessment, we offer accommodation at any stage during the recruitment process to applicants with disabilities. Questions regarding [diversity] EDI at UCalgary can be sent to the Office of Institutional Commitments ([email protected]) and requests for accommodations can be sent to People & Culture ([email protected]).
Do you have most but not all the qualifications? Research show that women, racialized and visible minorities, and persons with disabilities are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At UCalgary we are committed to achieving equitable, diverse, inclusive and accessible employment practices and workplaces and encourage you to apply if you believe you are right for this role.
We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, however preference will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada.
