Technician electron microprobe, confocal Raman microscopy, and LA-ICP-MS support

We are looking for an experienced laboratory technician specialized in electron microprobe analysis and with a broad expertise in the microanalysis of geological materials. Beyond instrument operation, calibration, and routine maintenance, you will supervise and train users. Drawing on your expertise, you will support users in interpreting analytical results and advise them on the most suitable analytical methods.

Your job
The GeoLab, the central laboratory of the Faculty of Geosciences, invites applications for a Laboratory Technician specializing in electron microprobe analysis, confocal Raman microscopy, and laser-ablation ICP-MS. The GeoLab hosts a suite of advanced analytical facilities that support cutting-edge research in Earth System Sciences.

We are seeking an experienced and highly skilled professional with broad expertise in the microanalysis of geological materials. The successful candidate will share responsibility for the operation of the JEOL JXA-8530F FEG electron microprobe, WITec Raman microscope, and Thermo Scientific Element2 ICP-MS coupled to a Coherent excimer laser.

Key responsibilities include instrument operation, calibration, and routine maintenance; supervision and training of users; and providing basic support in the interpretation of analytical results. The position combines technical excellence with close interaction with researchers across a wide range of Earth science disciplines.

The selected candidate may be asked to provide hands-on educational processes that engage upper year and graduate students in real world applications of advanced electron microbeam analytical techniques to geological and hard materials problems in a classroom and/or laboratory environment. In addition, the willingness to contribute in maintaining and extending a network to ensure a stable user base is an advantage.

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with demonstrated expertise in microchemical analytical applications in the Earth sciences and a strong interest in supporting and advising scientific users. The ideal candidate has:

• A MSc degree in Earth sciences, (instrumental) analytical chemistry, or a related field, or an equivalent level of expertise gained through professional experience
• In-depth knowledge of mineralogy and trace element geochemistry
• Experience working at the interface between scientific research and technical laboratory support
• Strong collaboration skills and a team-oriented mindset
• Good communication and organizational skills, enabling to manage a variety of research projects from different scientists

As the role is embedded in a dynamic, international research environment with state-of-the-art laboratory facilities, excellent communication skills in English are essential. Proficiency in Dutch is an advantage. International candidates will be assisted in acquiring Dutch language skills within the first two years of their appointment.

We offer:

• A temporary position (0.8 – 1.0 fte) for one year. A permanent contract will be offered based on good performance, according to the faculty’s performance indicators, after one year.
• a working week of 32- 40 hours and a gross monthly salary between € 3.546 and €5.538 in the case of full-time employment (salary scale 10 under the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (CAO NU));
• 8% holiday pay and 8.3% year-end bonus;
• a pension scheme, partially paid parental leave and flexible terms of employment based on the CAO NU.

In addition to the terms of employment laid down in the CAO NU, Utrecht University also offers a range of its own schemes for employees. This includes arrangements for professional development, various types of leave, and options for sports and cultural activities. You can also tailor your employment conditions through our Terms of Employment Options Model. In this way, we encourage you to keep investing in your personal and professional development. For more information, please visit Working at Utrecht University.

A better future for everyone. This ambition motivates our scientists in executing their leading research and inspiring teaching. At Utrecht University, the various disciplines collaborate intensively towards major strategic themes. Our focus is on Dynamics of Youth, Institutions for Open Societies, Life Sciences and Pathways to Sustainability. Sharing science, shaping tomorrow.

Utrecht University’s Faculty of Geosciences studies the Earth: from the Earth’s core to its surface, including man’s spatial and material utilisation of the Earth – always with a focus on sustainability and innovation. With 3,400 students (BSc and MSc) and 720 staff, the faculty is a strong and challenging organisation. The Faculty of Geosciences is organised in four Departments: Earth Sciences, Human Geography & Spatial Planning, Physical Geography, and Sustainable Development.

The GeoLab is the main laboratory facility of the Faculty of Geosciences and conducts research in close collaboration with scientists, students, PhD candidates, and postdocs. This includes a wide range of analytical techniques and experimental research. We work with various types of sample materials such as rocks, soils, sediments, vegetation, water, and air. Our work includes preparing samples and subsequent analysis using various (advanced) analytical techniques. To respond to changes in research, we develop our own new applications when necessary.

For more information (not application) about this position, please contact Dr Katja Heister (Head of GeoLab) at k.heister@uu.nl

Candidates for this vacancy will be recruited by Utrecht University.