Research Associate

WELCOME TO CLEMSON!

Clemson is calling...are you ready to answer the call?

One of the most productive public research universities in the nation, Clemson University attracts and powerfully unites students, faculty and staff whose greatest desire is to make a difference in the lives of others.

Clemson has recently been named a top 25 public college in the country by the Wall Street Journal, a top South Carolina employer by Forbes and a Military Friendly Employer for five years running. Through our research, outreach and entrepreneurial projects, Clemson University and its employees are driving economic development and improving quality of life in South Carolina and beyond.

So,... are you ready?

JOB SUMMARY:

This Research Associate position is to complete laboratory research in Dr. Sternberg's Sustainable Packaging Lab including new materials synthesis and testing using laboratory techniques. The position includes writing manuscripts, reports, creating presentations, managing projects and other duties as assigned.

JOB DUTIES:

70% - Essential - Synthesize new materials from biobased sources using wet-chemical techniques. Conduct testing on new materials using polymer characterization equipment. Assess the biodegradability of synthesized materials using a respirometer.

20% - Essential - Create high impact journal publications from individual research.

Collaborate with Ph.D. students and researchers from other labs to complete manuscripts on related research to sustainable materials. Reply to reviewer comments and revise manuscripts based on feedback.

10% - Essential - Organize the ordering of supplies and chemicals for Ph.D. students. Support the training of Ph.D. students on new equipment.

Monitor laboratory organization and lab member etiquette.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

Education - High School or Equivalent - Work experience in a clinical or research laboratory setting, in a health care setting or in a general maintenance or machine shop environment. A bachelor's degree in a related scientific discipline may be substituted for the required work experience.

Work Exp 1+ years

PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS:

Education - Master's degree - Engineering or science-related field

Work Experience - Designing and completing experiments, running characterization equipment, writing manuscripts and reports.

RESPONSIBILITIES

JOB KNOWLEDGE

Firm Job Knowledge - Firm working knowledge of concepts, practices and procedures and ability to use in varied situations

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

Supervises Student Workers only - Supervises Student workers only

BUDGETARY RESPONSIBILITIES

No Budget Responsibilities - No fiscal responsibility for the department's budget.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

50% - Stand for prolonged period

40% - Sit (stationary position) for prolonged period

30% - Walk or move about

50% - Use hands or feet to operate or handle machinery, equipment, etc

50% - Communicate, converse, give direction, express oneself

50% - Extends hands or arms in any direction

50% - Perceive, observe, clarity of vision

WORKING CONDITIONS:

50% - Chemical hazards

20% - Burn hazards

WORK SCHEDULE:

Standard Hours: 37.5

COMPENSATION INFORMATION

Anticipated Salary Range: $31,800 - $40,000

Salary is dependent upon several factors including, but not limited to, a candidate's previous experience, knowledge, skills and performance in accordance with Clemson's compensation guidelines.

ESSENTIAL PERSONNEL LEVEL

Normal Operations

Required to follow emergency facility closure directives, and not normally expected work on-site during emergency situations.

JOB LOCATION:

Clemson, SC

APPLICATION DEADLINE:

August 21, 2025

MILITARY AND VETERAN:

MILITARY EQUIVALENCY:

Clemson University is proud to allow educational equivalency for military technical certifications and trainings that directly relate to the job duties.

VETERAN PREFERENCE:

South Carolina is making our Veterans a priority for employment in state agencies and institutions.

State policy for veteran preference states that for qualifying, full-time permanent positions, a veteran applicant may receive preference if they meet the job's minimum qualifications, were discharged under honorable conditions from the military, and submit their DD-214 for confidential review by the Office of Human Resources.

To claim Veteran Preference for qualifying positions, email ... upon submission of your application.

CLOSING STATEMENT:

Clemson University is an EEO/AA employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to characteristics protected by applicable law including disability and protected veteran status.

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