Senior Research Scientist

Position Overview

Curator of the national United States Rock Repository (USPRR). The USPRR is unusual among rock repositories in providing immediate on-line access to terrestrial rock sample metadata and in encouraging sample loan requests. Sub-sets of samples are available for analysis by investigators from around the world. Loans of samples to museums and schools are also provided.

The curators role is to oversee the management and growth of the repository including: continued development, organization and implementation of the existing database (both in-house, on-line) and website development; acquiring and entering metadata related to the cataloged samples; actively seeking donations of new collections; development of educational and community outreach initiatives; governance related issues and liaison with the National Science Foundation; oversee the daily operations of the repository, including cataloging of samples and digital imaging; oversee sample distribution issues such as sample requests, sample decisions, loans etc.; oversee student assistants and assigning of job tasks; develop new proposals for the continuation of the rock repository and for other scientific research. Develop educational outreach to the community via local interaction with schools and through educational activities on the USPRR website.

Required Qualifications

A doctoral degree in Earth Sciences is required. Demonstrated ability to manage and grow a scientific rock repository, including overseeing daily operations; cataloging and digital imaging of samples; maintaining databases and websites; managing sample requests and loans; serving as a liaison with funding agencies such as the National Science Foundation; and developing successful research and infrastructure proposals to support continued repository operations.

Desired Qualifications

Experience building educational and community outreach programs, expanding collections through donations, and providing broad access to scientific collections for researchers, museums, schools, and the public through both in-person engagement and online platforms.

Application Materials

A resume is required to be submitted.

Salary and Work Hours

This is a 27.5% FTE position with an annual salary of $48,213.00.