Research Associate

Job Overview This role is responsible for the operation, maintenance, and optimization of Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) instrumentation in a production laboratory environment. The position will contribute to both production support and research initiatives focused on gemstone identification, treatment detection, geographic origin determination, and analytical method development. The role partners closely with GIA’s global research team and provides critical technical expertise in analytical chemistry and spectroscopy. Key Responsibilities Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot LA-ICP-MS instrumentation to ensure consistent, high-quality performance in a production laboratory setting. Support day-to-day laboratory operations, including sample preparation, data acquisition, and quality control processes. Contribute to research projects involving natural, treated, and synthetic gemstones, including gemstone identification and characterization, treatment detection methodologies, geographic origin determination, development and validation of analytical chemistry methods, and advanced data collection, interpretation, and analysis. Collaborate with cross‑functional research teams to design experiments and evaluate findings. Prepare technical reports, documentation, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders, and contribute to publications such as Gems & Gemology. Maintain accurate data records, databases, and documentation in alignment with laboratory standards. Ensure compliance with safety protocols and proper handling of laboratory equipment and materials. Travel domestically and internationally as needed to support research initiatives and collaborations. Skills & Abilities Hands‑on experience with LA-ICP-MS required; experience with other microanalytical or mass spectrometry techniques strongly preferred. Strong understanding of analytical chemistry, spectroscopy, and instrumentation principles. Working knowledge of geochemistry, mineralogy, crystallography, and/or gemology. Proficiency in data analysis, interpretation, and scientific reporting. Experience with laboratory data systems and database management. Strong attention to detail and commitment to data integrity. Ability to read, analyze, and interpret scientific and technical literature. Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present complex findings clearly. Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a research‑driven environment. Minimum Qualifications Master’s degree (MSc) or equivalent in Chemistry, Geochemistry, Materials Science, Earth Sciences, Physics, or a related field. Demonstrated hands‑on experience with LA-ICP‑MS or comparable analytical instrumentation required. Prior experience in a laboratory or research environment strongly preferred. GG and/or FGA credentials preferred or willingness to obtain. Work Environment Physical demands: stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; talk or hear; occasionally climb or balance; stoop, kneel, or crouch; taste or smell. May lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Requires close, distance, and depth vision; ability to adjust focus. Exposure: toxic or caustic chemicals, risk of electrical shock, risk of radiation. Noise level is usually moderate. Pay range: $34–44/hour An Equal Opportunity Employer All employment decisions are made without regard to unlawful considerations of race, sex, religion, national origin, age, disability, or any other legally protected status. Reasonable accommodations are available upon request. Disclaimer: This job description indicates in general terms the type and level of work performed as well as the typical responsibilities of employees in this classification and it may be changed by management at any time. Other duties may also apply. Nothing in this job description changes the at‑will employment relationship existing between the Company and its employees. #J-18808-Ljbffr GIA (Gemological Institute of America)