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:
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
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
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.
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*updated 09/2025
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*updated 10/2025
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