Applied Scientific Researcher

To be successful in this position, you will need:

Education & Experience

Bachelor's degree in related scientific field and four years of relevant work experience; or Master’s degree in a related scientific field and two years relevant experience; or PhD in related science field.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Comprehensive understanding of scientific principles.
   
• Expert level knowledge and skills in field of science related to research project.
   
• General computer skills, experience with databases and scientific applications, and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs.
   
• Strong analytical skills and excellent judgment.
   
• Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance is essential.
   
• Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to complete detailed work accurately.
   
• Developing project management skills.

In addition, our preferred qualifications include:

• Master’s degree or Ph.D. in environmental health, environmental science, chemistry, physics, toxicology, public health, earth sciences, or a related field.
   
• 3–5+ years of relevant research experience, including fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and research project management.
   
• Experience leading others and working independently, problem solving, and adapting to dynamic resource-constrained environments.
   
• Hands-on experience with environmental sampling, sample preparation, and laboratory analyses, including independent analysis of inorganic samples using techniques such as ICP-MS, ICP-OES, GFAAS, XRF, and colorimetry. Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot analytical or instrumentation issues independently and without supervision.
   
• Demonstrated ability to develop or adapt scientific protocols, standard operating procedures, and survey instruments. Ability to create clear, comprehensive documentation (protocols, SOPs, data dictionaries, lab manuals).
   
• Strong understanding of quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) procedures and data integrity practices for elemental and isotopic analyses.
   
• Experience managing sample inventories, chain-of-custody procedures, and field/lab logistics.
   
• Proficiency in data management, including database organization, documentation, and version control.
   
• Demonstrated experience overseeing day-to-day research operations, including workflow coordination and monitoring project timelines.
   
• Ability to work effectively as a member of a diverse research team, including supervising or training research assistants, students, or interns.
   
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple concurrent tasks and maintain meticulous records.
   
• Excellent scientific writing and editing skills, including experience preparing reports, manuscripts, and research summaries.
   
• Strong interpersonal skills for working with diverse partners, collaborators, and field teams.
   
• Experience identifying funding opportunities and developing grant proposals, donor reports, or funding applications.
   
• Willingness to travel domestically or internationally to support fieldwork, training, or collaborations.

* - Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of the job.

The expected pay range for this position is $100,082 to $118,812 per annum.

Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of the salary or hourly wage the university reasonably expects to pay for a position upon hire. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location, and external market pay for comparable jobs. At Stanford University, base pay represents only one aspect of the comprehensive rewards package. 

At Stanford University, base pay represents only one aspect of the comprehensive rewards package. The Cardinal at Work website (https://cardinalatwork.stanford.edu/benefits-rewards) provides detailed information on Stanford’s extensive range of benefits and rewards offered to employees. Specifics about the rewards package for this position may be discussed during the hiring process.

How to Apply
We invite you to apply for this position by clicking on the “Apply for Job” button.

The job duties listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classification and are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary depending on department or program needs without changing the general nature and scope of the job or level of responsibility. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned.

Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact Stanford University Human Resources by submitting a contact form.

Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.