There is growing evidence that firefighters are exposed to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) associated with their gear. The source of the PFAS may be from the firefighter gear (FFG) construction materials or manufacturing process, deterioration of the FFG during service, and deposition on the FFG while on duty. To characterize and reduce the firefighter’s risk of being exposed to PFAS, NIST is starting a new study to understand the type, prevalence, and concentration of PFAS on the FFG, the source of PFAS, and the mechanism for PFAS release from the FFG.
The work will include, but isn’t limited to entail…
- Setting up, executing, and reporting on preparing specimens for analysis (labeling, cutting, and storing specimens, wet chemistry extractions and handling, etc.).
- Setting up, executing, and reporting on preparing and completing physical stressing (abrasion, thermal, etc.) and airborne experiments of specimens.
- Assist in operating equipment and collecting PFAS from thermal degradation and combustion experiments.
- Willing to learn how to operate analytic equipment (gas chromatography, etc.)
Qualifications-
- B.S. or M.S. in chemistry or related field
- Two semesters of lab experience (before or after degree)
- Good communications skills
- Good time management skills
- Strong team focus
- Want to take on and learn new activities
Additional Position details
- Full-time
- Location – National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Gaithersburg, MD campus
- Salary range – $55,000-$65,000/year
- Travel opportunities and funds are available as needed
To apply: https://nistprep.engineering.jhu.edu/opportunities/research-associate-prep0002242/