Department: |
Earth and Environmental Sciences |
Effective Date: |
February 2011 |
Grade: |
USG 6 |
Reports to: |
EIL Lab Manager |
General Accountability
Under the supervision of the EIL Lab Manager, the technician is responsible for the preparation of organic and inorganic radiocarbon samples in breakseals for Carbon -14 dating at AMS facilities, and water samples for dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC’s) for Carbon-13 isotope determination. The technician is also responsible for the preparation and analysis of water samples for enriched tritium as needed. The incumbent will be versed sufficiently in isotope theory to be able to discuss procedures and results with clients. Supervision of technicians for pre-treatments, DIC samples and other duties as required is also the responsibility of the incumbent. Also functions as an office assistant for reporting of results to clients, responds to client concerns and communicates general pricing for established analyses.
Nature and Scope
The Environmental Isotope Laboratory (EIL) operates on a fee for service basis analyzing samples for the content of various isotopes for both University and external researchers. The EIL charges for these analyses to cover chemicals, equipment and salary costs related to the analyses, therefore there is a job available as long as there are samples to analyze. The incumbent will be an integral part of the team to provide sample analyses results in a timely manner to clients from around the world. Duties assigned will include the set up and operation of laboratory analytical equipment, conduct data analysis and interaction with students, co-workers and clients.
Statistical Data
Analyses 150 ($11,000)
Sample Results Reported 33,000 ($1,500,000)
Clients 150+
Specific Accountabilities
- The preparation and analysis of water samples for dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) as described in TP 5.0 and the preparation of organic samples (Break Seal Combustion) as described TP 22.0. For DIC samples, the sample carbon dioxide is released by treatment with phosphoric acid and is then analyzed on the Prism Mass Spectrometer for its 13C content. Organic samples are purified to remove carbonate and then combusted to CO2 in a sealed quartz glass tube. A subsample is then analyzed on the Prism Mass Spectrometer for its 13C content. The results are reported to the office administrator. This method is also used when preparing small samples for radiocarbon dating by tandem accelerator mass spectrometer (AMS). Sample CO2 is sealed into glass break seals and then shipped to the Arizona AMS Facility, Beta Labs in Miami or the Rafter Radiocarbon Laboratory in New Zealand.
- As needed, the preparation of water samples for tritium enrichment as outlined in TP 1.0. The water samples will be checked for conductivity as per TP 2.0. They are then put through salt removal by ion exchange, electrolytic enrichment and then final distillation. After final distillation, the samples are mixed with scintillation cocktail and placed into a Liquid Scintillation Counter (LSC) for measurement of their Tritium content. The raw data from the LSC are converted with a computer program to final results, which are reported to office administrator.
- Working knowledge of general personal computer. use and other analytical techniques similar to those listed above is required. It is also necessary to have an operating knowledge of Mass Spectrometers, vacuum pumps and lines, balances, conductivity meter, freeze dryer, muffle furnace, etc. and to carryout routine maintenance on the vacuum lines, pumps, and equipment used in the various techniques.
- Helping to maintain the smooth operation of the EIL through providing assistance and knowledge to co-workers, post-docs, undergraduate and graduate students when trouble-shooting, problem solving or manipulating data, on the above.
- The incumbent arranges the schedule of which samples have priority with direction from the Lab Manager.
- It is the technician's responsibility for housekeeping in the work area and proper removal of all chemical wastes involved in the above procedures while observing all University safety standards.
Working Conditions
- At times works at a desk when corresponding with clients and recording sample results.
- At times the incumbent is required to work in a lab environment which is at times cool due to equipment requirements or hot due to sample analysis procedures and noisy.
- Manual dexterity and strength is required to open/close samples storage bottle closures.
- At times must be able to stand for long periods while performing routine sample preparation.
- Attention to details while dealing with large quantities of samples and results.
- Safety issues – hot materials and open flame, glass, intense light, handling poisonous/dangerous materials.
- Cleanliness - washing of glassware, must keep work areas free from contaminants.