Research Assistant (Part Time)-Collier Group
The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Research Assistant (Part Time)-Collier Group.
Location
Hattiesburg
118 College Drive
Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39406-0001
United States
Division
School of Polymer Science and Engineering
Employment Status
Part Time
Posting Close Date
Open Until Filled
Special Instructions to Applicants
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).
Job Summary
The research assistant supports ongoing work in polymer synthesis, materials characterization, and data analysis, and helps coordinate the group’s research activities. The role involves hands-on experimental work, data interpretation, and contributions to scientific outputs, including reports and publications.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
- Conducts the synthesis and chemical modification of conjugated polymers using established and experimental methods. Optimizes reaction parameters and maintains consistency across multiple batches of materials.
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Carries out physical and chemical characterization of polymers, including morphological and thermal analysis. Uses instrumentation such as FTIR, NMR, GPC, DSC, and TGA to gather and interpret data relevant to structure-property relationships.
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Contributes to the preparation of technical reports, research proposals, manuscripts for publication, and presentation materials. Maintains detailed records of experimental procedures, observations, and results in lab notebooks and digital formats.
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Participates in collaborative projects with external partners. May travel to national laboratories, user facilities, or scientific conferences for experimental work or to support dissemination of research findings.
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Assists in managing laboratory operations, including inventory, ordering, and maintenance of equipment. May provide guidance or training to new lab members or students involved in the group’s projects.
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Performs other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Polymer Science and Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science and Engineering, or a closely related discipline and demonstrated experience with organic chemistry laboratory techniques, such as synthesis, purification (e.g., distillation, chromatography), and characterization (e.g., NMR, FTIR).The candidate is expected to be self-motivated and capable of working collaboratively in a team environment.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
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Understands basic concepts in polymer and organic chemistry.
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Performs common lab procedures and has some experience with instruments like NMR, FTIR, or DSC.
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Keeps accurate notes during experiments and helps prepare basic reports.
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Willing to learn new techniques and assists with organizing and reviewing data.
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Works independently and communicates well with others in a team setting.
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Stays organized, motivated, and contributes reliably to group research efforts.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in one or more of the following experiment techniques would be preferred: cyclic voltammetry, fluorescence microscopy, organic electronics.
About The University of Southern Mississippi
Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.
Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.
We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We’re developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.
The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.
