Research Assistant

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.

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:

• the derivatization of oil samples and fries extracts for their SPME-GC/MS analyses
• the sample treatment of oils and fries for the determination of lipids by HPLC/MS
• the injection into the HPLC/MS system.

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

• Derivatization of EKODEs (using methanol BF3) and HCAs (using MTBSTFA) from fries and oils
• Solvent extraction of lipids from oils and fries for their determination via HPLC/MS
• Basic use (i.e. injection mobile phase preparation data collection) of an HPLC/MS system and SPME-GC/MS system.
• Metabolomic data analysis of volatile compounds via SPME-GC/MS
• Metabolomic data analyses of lipidic compounds via HPLC/MS

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

• Previous experience with SPME-GC/MS or similar tools is a plus.
• Previous experience with HPLC/MS or similar tools is a plus.
• Availability from 8 am to 5 pm (flexibility required depending on the analysis).
• Interest in Neurodegenerative Diseases and Chronic Disease Epidemiology

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.**

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.

Founded in 1888 Utah State University is Utahs 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.

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