Position Function:
The Department of Chemistry at Mississippi State University is seeking a full-time 12-month instrument manager for our Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy facility (Research Scientist). The successful candidate will supervise the maintenance of assigned NMR instrumentation in the Chemistry department, as well as the training of users. Instruments include four existing NMR systems (300, 500, 600, and 800 MHz), a helium recovery system, and an X-band electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) system. The candidate will handle mail-in samples, billing, and work with remote users as part of their responsibilities. The successful candidate will also train students on basic NMR use, including a one-credit introductory class for new graduate students, as assigned. The successful candidate may be assigned to assist with managing other analytical research instrumentation based on their interests and expertise. Although an individual with a PhD in analytical chemistry/biomedical sciences is highly desired, candidates with a master’s degree and relevant experience are eligible to apply. Excellent organization, communication, and teamwork skills are a must.
Salary Grade: 15
Please see Staff Compensation Structure for salary ranges.
Department Profile:
The Department of Chemistry family of more than 120 dedicated personnel includes 30 faculty and staff, 90 students, and other associates hailing from more than 16 nations and 20+ states.
In addition to serving the basic science and higher level chemistry curricula needs to nearly every major on campus including some 5000 non-majors, our department graduates an average of 18 Bachelor's, 4 Master's, and 10 Doctoral professionals in chemistry each year.
For more information on the Department of Chemistry, please visit www.chemistry.msstate.edu
Anticipated Appointment Date:
February 1, 2026
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
1. Broadly oversee day-to-day operations of the Department of Chemistry’s NMR facility. This includes the operation of Bruker NMR instrumentation and working with users to optimize NMR sample preparation.
2. Train NMR Facility users in the proper operation of the instrumentation, and teach practical classes in NMR data acquisition and best practices.
3. Regularly calibrate and shim all NMR systems and monitor the facility’s automated backup system. Work with the NMR Facility director to address any problems.
4. Perform cryogen fills and regular preventative maintenance on the department’s helium recovery system.
5. Perform basic repairs and preventative maintenance on NMRs and other instruments as assigned. For more serious repairs, coordinate on-site visits with instrument repair technicians.
6. Maintain the cleanliness of the NMR facility and other assigned instrumentation and monitor users to ensure that instruments are used and maintained correctly.
7. Receive samples sent to the facility from regional users and coordinate remote access through existing protocols. Alternatively, work with remote users to run samples.
8. Work with the NMR Facility Director to set facility priorities and policies.
9. Participate in regular career development and workshops (including potential conference travel) to stay current on NMR techniques and instrumentation.
10. Participate in the department’s instrumentation committee and safety committee. Identify possible instrumentation needs and safety concerns.
11. Support faculty research efforts in implementing new NMR experiments and participate in publications and/or grant writing activities, as appropriate.
12. Monitor instrument billing and maintain a positive, supportive environment for NMR users.
13. Other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications:
Applicants must have a Ph.D. in chemistry, biology, biochemistry, biophysics, or a closely related area. Applicants must possess the skills needed to organize and manage assigned duties.
Preferred Qualifications:
Applicants with prior experience with using and managing NMR instrumentation are particularly encouraged to apply.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Applicants must possess the skills needed to organize and manage the assigned duties.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
The successful candidate must be able to handle samples safely, operate scientific NMR and EPR instrumentation, and work in a standard laboratory environment. Duties may involve standing for extended periods, performing repetitive motions, and occasionally lifting materials or equipment weighing up to 25 pounds. The role also requires adherence to laboratory safety protocols, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and compliance with institutional safety and training requirements. Some evening or weekend hours may be necessary for instrument maintenance activities.
Instructions for Applying:
All applicants must apply online at www.msujobs.msstate.edu and attach a cover letter, current curriculum vitae, and complete contact information for at least three professional references.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
Mississippi State University is an equal opportunity institution. Discrimination is prohibited in university employment, programs or activities based on race, color, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, or any other status to the extent protected by applicable law. Questions about equal opportunity programs or compliance should be directed to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance, 231 Famous Maroon Band Street, P.O. 6044, Mississippi State, MS 39762, (662) 325-5839.
What do I do if I need an accommodation?
In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi State University, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at tel: (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu.
If you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human Resources Management at (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu. Upon request, sections of this job listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.
