Lab Coordinator - Physics

Overview

The principal activities of the Physics & Astronomy Department are research and education, at both the undergraduate and graduate level. The department strives both to contribute to the growing understanding of the physical universe, and to educate students in both the content of physics and its methods and principles.

What You'll Do

This is a part-time position at 17.5 hours per week, and is fully benefits eligible. 

In cooperation with other Laboratory Coordinators, supports the reliable, safe, and effective operation of the department's teaching laboratories and demonstration program, with particular responsibility for experimental apparatus, instrumentation, equipment maintenance, and technical troubleshooting. The position contributes technical expertise to laboratory improvements and TA preparation.

• Ensure that lab rooms are set up correctly and on time. Prepare, test, organize, and document laboratory equipment and experimental apparatus so that TAs and students can find and use the equipment they need and leave it in good order after each session. Work with the Laboratory Coordinator and teaching laboratory team to maintain sufficient functioning equipment and spare components for reliable delivery of laboratory activities across multiple sections.
• Visit lab sessions underway to see how the activities and equipment work in practice. Respond promptly and effectively to reports of equipment problems. Assist TAs with technical issues involving apparatus, measurement, equipment use, and experimental technique.
• Maintain laboratory and demonstration equipment; troubleshoot problems. Diagnose and repair mechanical, electronic, instrumentation, data-acquisition, and computer-interfaced systems. Identify recurring equipment problems and recommend appropriate repair, replacement, or redesign. Store equipment and maintain appropriate stocks of spare parts and components so that equipment is ready for use when next needed. Ensure laboratories are neat and organized.
• Construct, modify, prototype, and test scientific apparatus, laboratory equipment, and lecture demonstrations. Contribute technical and experimental expertise to approved improvements in laboratory activities, including evaluating technical feasibility, developing and testing prototypes, troubleshooting proposed designs, and documenting successful implementations.
• In collaboration with the Laboratory Coordinator, Laboratory Supervisor, instructors of record, lead TAs, and department leadership, contribute to the planning and delivery of laboratory-specific training for graduate and undergraduate teaching assistants. This includes orientation, TA tryouts of laboratory activities, TA meetings, preparation of training materials, and facilitating effective communication among participants. The position may lead individual training sessions or activities within areas of relevant expertise, particularly experimental technique, equipment use, measurement, troubleshooting, demonstrations, and safety.
• Support faculty use of lecture demonstration equipment. Maintain the Robinson demonstration room. Help maintain, document, and improve existing demonstrations. Help develop and document new demonstrations.
• Maintain technical documentation for laboratory and demonstration equipment, including setup information, troubleshooting procedures, maintenance and repair records, schematics where appropriate, and parts and spare-component needs. Organize and track equipment, components, and related technical materials to preserve operational continuity and technical knowledge.
• Review and ensure compliance with lab safety requirements, including training and documentation.

What We're Looking For

Basic Requirements:
Knowledge and experience typically acquired by:

• Bachelor's Degree in a science field
• 1-3 years of research laboratory experience

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience coordinating laboratory activities/operations

Pay Range