New 
Research Assistant
 Utah State University | |
$15.00 / hr
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 United States, Utah, Logan | |
 Oct 07, 2025 | |
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Research Assistant Requisition ID: 2025-9587 # of Openings: 2 Location: US-UT-Logan Category: Research (non-Faculty) Position Type: Non-benefited (hourly) Part-Time Job Classification: Non-Benefited College: Quinney College of Agric & Nat Res Department: Nutrition Dietetics & Food Sciences Advertised Salary: $15.00 per hour Overview Food Sensoromics and Metabolomics Lab (FSML), directed by Dr. Joana Pico and located within the Nutrition, Dietetics, and Food Sciences (NDFS) department, is seeking two dedicated Grad Research Assistants. This is a part-time position designed to support the smooth operation of a new project at the FSML research group. Responsibilities The primary role of the selected candidates will be to analyze the volatile and non-volatile compounds generated in thermally abused oils and the corresponding deep-fried fries. These analyses will include:
Once the data is generated, the Grad Research Assistant will also be responsible for the corresponding data analysis, as well as the statistical analyses, all under the supervision of Dr. Joana Pico. Skills that will be developed
Qualifications Currently enrolled at USU as a graduate student, or an individual not enrolled at USU but with a BSc relevant to Chemistry, Food Sciences, Nutrition, or Biological Engineering, complemented by strong knowledge in Biochemistry. Preferred Qualifications
Required Documents Along with the online application, please attach: 1. Resume/CV to be uploaded at the beginning of your application in the Candidate Profile under "Resume/CV" 2. Transcripts to be uploaded at the beginning of your application in the Candidate Profile under "Documents 1-10" 3. Cover Letter to be typed/pasted at the end of your application **Document size may not exceed 10 MB.** Advertised Salary $15.00 per hour ADA The work environment will be based on a controlled indoor laboratory setting, which requires the fulfillment of safety protocols at all times. Due to the presence of chemicals, solvents, and other potentially hazardous materials, it is mandatory to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including lab coats, safety glasses, and gloves. Likewise, it will be necessary to use fume hoods to manage potential exposure to chemical fumes, odors, and other contaminants. The daily routine will often be spent on the lab bench, where samples are prepared and instruments (chromatographs and other wet lab tools) are run, with time spent at a desk or computer for analyzing data and writing reports. Physical capabilities: The role requires specific physical capabilities, particularly concerning fine motor skills/dexterity, which are frequently used for precise tasks such as pipetting and handling small volumes of solutions and reagents. It will also require these motor skills when manipulating lab glassware and tools and, to a lesser extent, when injecting samples into the chromatograph. These activities contribute to repetitive motion strain, especially from constant pipetting and sample handling, which requires an appropriate posture to avoid muscle fatigue. The workday involves a combination of sitting and standing, with periods of standing at the lab bench for sample preparation and injections, and other moments sitting at a computer for data analysis. Additionally, visual acuity is also important, as near/far vision, depth perception, and color vision are needed for accurate measurement, reading instrument displays, and observing subtle chemical reactions or color changes. Finally, the position occasionally requires lifting or carrying slightly heavy items when packages from purchase orders for the lab need to be picked up from the main office and transported in a cart to the second floor (using the elevator); in most cases, light items are lifted, such as chemicals, glassware, and sample containers, which typically weigh 10 lbs or less. Mental Demands: The mental demands of this work are mainly related to a required high degree of attention to details when the tasks are explained and executed, and also high precision to avoid as many errors as possible in sample preparation or data entry. Rigorous in taking notes is also necessary, as the daily tasks should be recorded in a notebook. Professionals should possess strong analytical and critical thinking skills, which are essential for interpreting complex data like chromatograms and evaluating the overall validity and accuracy of results. Generally, this work demands deep concentration for sustained periods during sample preparation, instrument operation, and data analysis, along with attention to following complex procedures (SOPs). Finally, effective time management and communication are crucial, as well as clearly documenting and reporting all findings and issues to the team and direct supervisor. College/Department Highlights University Highlights Founded in 1888, Utah State University is Utah's premier land-grant, public service university. As an R1 research institution, Utah State is dedicated to advancing knowledge and serving the public good through innovative research and scholarly activities that are grounded in reciprocal engagement with local, regional, and global communities. USU prepares students to be active, civically engaged leaders who are prepared to address critical societal challenges. Dedicated to providing a high-quality and affordable education, USU remains a leader in research, discovery, and public impact. USU enrolls 28,900 students, both online and in person at locations throughout the state. Utah State's 30 locations include a main campus in Logan, Utah, residential campuses in Price and Blanding, and six additional statewide campuses, along with education centers serving every county. USU Online educates students from all 50 states and 55 countries. For over 25 years, USU Extension has served and engaged Utahns in all of Utah's counties. Competing at the NCAA Division I level, USU is a proud member of the Mountain West Conference and will join the Pac-12 Conference beginning in the 2026-2027 season. The Aggies' long-standing tradition of athletic and academic excellence is exemplified by conference championships in multiple sports, reflecting USU's commitment to perseverance and achievement. Utah State is dedicated to fostering a community where all individuals feel respected, valued, and supported. We seek to recruit, hire, and retain people from all walks of life who will champion excellence in education, research, discovery, outreach, and service. We believe that promoting a strong sense of community and belonging empowers and engages all members of USU to thrive and be successful. Forbes recognized our commitment to employees when they named Utah State the best employer in Utah in 2023. Learn more about USU. The university provides a Dual Career Assistance Program to support careers for partners who are also seeking employment. Additionally, USU is committed to providing access and a reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities. To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability, contact the university's ADA Coordinator in the Office of Human Resources at (435) 797-0122 or hr@usu.edu . *updated 09/2025 https://careers-usu.icims.com/jobs/9587/research-assistant/job?in_iframe=1 Notice of Non-discrimination In its programs and activities, including in admissions and employment, Utah State University does not discriminate or tolerate discrimination, including harassment, based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by University policy, Title IX, or any other federal, state, or local law. The following individuals have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the application of Title IX and its implementing regulations and/or USUs non-discrimination policies: Executive Director of the Office of Equity Matthew Pinner, discrimination@usu.edu, Distance Education Rm. 401, 435-797-1266 Title IX Coordinator Matthew Pinner, titleix@usu.edu, Distance Education Rm. 404, 435-797-1266 Mailing address: 5100 Old Main Hill, Logan, Ut 84322 For further information regarding non-discrimination, please visit https://equity.usu.edu/, or contact: U.S. Department of Education, Office of Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 800-421-3481, OCR@ed.gov U.S. Department of Education, Denver Regional Office, 303-844-5695, OCR.Denver@ed.gov Copyright 2025 Jobelephant.com Inc. All rights reserved. Posted by the FREE value-added recruitment advertising agency jeid-7f5be04a666c22449f294d9e3085bbb8 | |