Position Summary

Conducts laboratory experiments to generate data supporting projects in sustainable packaging, bio-based barrier coatings and functional paper coating technologies. Provides technical support, instrument operation, and applied research expertise under the direction of senior researchers. 

Candidate will:

Follow and help refine experimental procedures to prepare, apply and test coating formulations (starch, fillers, biopolymers) for paper and fiber-based packaging.

Independently perform standardized barrier, mechanical and surface property tests and ensures reliable and consistent data collection

Operates, maintains, calibrates and troubleshoots laboratory equipment such as rod coaters, lab-scale coating systems mixers.

Assist senior researchers by organizing experimental plans, sample sets, and test matrices

Compiles test results, graphs, and summaries for inclusion in technical reports, publications and presentations. 

Prepares and stores glassware and tools used in experiments following appropriate protocols

Minimum Requirements

Knowledge normally acquired by completing a four- year college degree program in the specific field of research employment such as Materials Science, Packaging, Food Science, Polymer Science, Chemistry or other related field; six months to one year of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience performing basic research techniques specific to the area of research employment such as: Tissue Culture, Analytical Research, Molecular Biology, Agriculture, Social Science, Physiology, Medical Research, laboratory research, wet chemistry, coating formulation or materials testing etc., including the use and calibration of related equipment; word processing, spreadsheet; database and/or desktop publishing software; presentation software; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. 

Desired Qualifications

Experience with paper-coating or packaging related testing

Familiarity with sustainability motivated materials and barrier technologies

Comfort with mechanical, barrier-property, and surface-property testing instruments

Ability to follow detailed protocols, maintain clear records and work independently.

Experience with instrumentation, data collection, and routine troubleshooting. 

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Application Materials

CV

Cover letter 

3 professional references

Work Hours

STANDARD 8-5

Description of End Date

This is a limited term position funded until October 31, 2026 from date of hire with possible extension contingent upon funding renewal.

Website

www.packaging.msu.edu

Bidding eligibility ends December 16, 2025 at 11:55 P.M.

About Michigan State University

Spartans work every day to advance the common good in uncommon ways.Together, we tackle some of the world?s toughest problems to find solutions that make life better?from alternative energy to better food safety to breakthrough medical and environmental applications achieved through rare isotope research.We teach. We explore and we discover. We collaborate and lead. We innovate, inspire, and empower. We achieve our potential and create circumstances that help our students and others achieve theirs.We're good at it, and we've been at it for more than 150 years.The nation?s pioneer land-grant university, MSU began as a bold experiment that democratized higher education and helped bring science and innovation into everyday life. The revolutionary concept became a model for the nation.Today, MSU is one of the top research universities in the world?on one of the biggest, greenest campuses in the nation. Home to nationally ranked and recognized academic, residential college, and service-learning programs, we?re a diverse community of dedicated students and scholars, athletes and artists, scientists and leaders.In ways both practical and profound, we work to create a stronger, more sustainable, and more hopeful future for all.

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