Research Associate - Gemological Institute of America : Job Details

JOB OVERVIEWAssists Research Scientists and other Research Associates in the organizing, and conducting of advanced testing (spectroscopic, chemical, and others) of gem materials. Interprets gemological and spectroscopic analysis results, and contributes to research projects, by performing the following duties.ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Contribute to research projects in the study of natural, treated, and synthetic diamonds/colored stones/pearls to develop new identification criteria to include, but not limited to:

• Participate in research efforts in support of Research Scientists.
• Conduct research, utilizing institution library, archives, and collections, and other sources of information, to collect, record, analyze, and evaluate facts.
• Prepare samples, conduct data collection, analysis, interpretation and publication.
• Contribute to group work activities, catalog gem collection materials and data.
• Discuss findings with other personnel to evaluate validity of findings.
• Prepare reports of completed projects for publication in technical journals, for presentation to agency requesting project, or for use in further applied or theoretical research activities.
• Provide research presentations and publications, as directed, to share project results to other GIA departments and to the general jewelry industry.

• Publish discoveries, findings and research results in Gems & Gemology or in other publications.
• Travel domestically and/or internationally occasionally on behalf of GIA Research utilizing commercial transportation resources.
• Occasionally support colored stones, pearls, and other gemstones production by performing gemological, spectroscopic, and chemical analysis.
• Occasionally perform data analysis, data file management, and database construction
• Communicate effectively, get along with coworkers and management, and deal with others effectively and professionally under pressure.

TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES (Knowledge, Skills & Abilities)

• To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
• Understanding of analytical chemistry and spectroscopy, with experience of instrument operation
• Good knowledge and experience in computer operations, including data analysis, file management, and database construction (as needed). Some coding ability (e.g. MATLAB, Python, R) would be desirable.
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret common scientific and technical journals. Ability to write or contribute to reports or peer-reviewed scientific articles. Ability to prepare and deliver effective presentations on technical or complex topics to top management, public groups, and/or boards of directors.
• Ability to comprehend and apply principles of advanced calculus, modern algebra, and advanced statistical theory.
• Ability to apply principles of logical or scientific thinking to a wide range of intellectual and practical problems. Ability to interpret and create nonverbal symbolism (formulas, scientific equations, graphs, etc.) in its most difficult phases.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCEMaster's degree required in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Sciences, Earth Sciences, or related fields, or equivalent combination of education and experience required.PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS / WORK ENVIRONMENT (if applicable)The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to climb or balance; stoop, kneel, or crouch; and taste or smell. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.While performing the duties of this job, the employee may encounter conditions where a risk of exposure to toxic or caustic chemicals, electrical shock, and/or radiation is possible. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.Employees may be required, from time to time, to work overtime.Pay Range: $69-$82KDisclaimer: 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.