Mass Spectrometry Specialist

Organizational Context

The Department of Safeguards functions as the IAEA's nuclear inspectorate, dedicated to preventing nuclear weapons proliferation. It achieves this by implementing safeguards to ensure no diversion of declared nuclear material and no undeclared activities. This role is situated within the Office of Safeguards Analytical Services (SGAS), specifically the Mass Spectrometry Team, which provides essential laboratory services for the analysis of inspection samples collected in the field.

Job Purpose

Reporting to the Team Leader, the Mass Spectrometry Specialist is pivotal in implementing the operational aspects of the Mass Spectrometry Team (MST) for the precise analysis of actinides using Thermal Ionization Mass Spectrometry (TIMS) and Inductively-Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICPMS). This role is critical for ensuring efficient sample throughput and the timely delivery of analytical results. The specialist significantly contributes to the quality management system through innovative process improvements, advanced method development, and by maintaining instruments at peak performance and reliability. As an expert, the incumbent performs isotopic measurements, continuously seeking to enhance existing analytical procedures. Furthermore, the specialist acts as a technical expert, diagnosing complex issues, developing software tools for data processing, and tuning instruments. The role also involves actively contributing to upholding compliance across all team operations, adhering to IAEA regulations and laboratory best practices.

Responsibilities

The Mass Spectrometry Specialist will actively participate in the meticulous preparation and analysis of actinides, including Uranium, Plutonium, Thorium, and Americium, within safeguards samples, employing both Thermal Ionization Mass Spectrometry (TIMS) and Inductively-Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICPMS). A primary responsibility involves coordinating the intricate workflow of inspection samples and quality control (QC) samples, ensuring that all analytical results consistently meet pre-established timeliness goals and stringent quality requirements. The incumbent is tasked with ensuring the highest quality of analytical results through the development and rigorous adherence to analytical procedures and comprehensive QC charts, while continuously seeking and implementing opportunities for process improvement. This role also encompasses ensuring that all analytical and ancillary equipment are maintained at the highest operational level, providing reliable and fit-for-purpose analytical results. The specialist will contribute significantly to the overall maintenance and operation of the laboratories, ensuring that all required quality standards are met. Furthermore, the incumbent will keep abreast of the latest developments in high-accuracy actinide mass spectrometry, actively contributing to the research, development, and implementation of new techniques and improved methodologies. It is important to note that the incumbent may perform duties in areas involving exposure to radioactive materials, necessitating medical clearance as an Occupationally Exposed Worker and adherence to the IAEA's Radiation Safety Regulations and monitoring programmes.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of experience working with Thermal Ionization Mass Spectrometry (TIMS) is required. Demonstrated experience in implementing or administering ISO 9001 and/or ISO 17025 quality management systems is an asset. Experience with the analysis of actinides (U, Pu, Th, Am) in a radiologically-controlled laboratory environment is also considered an asset.

Skills

Core: Communication, Achieving Results, Teamwork, Planning and Organizing. Functional: Continuous process improvement, Partnership building, Technical/scientific credibility. Technical Expertise: Analytical Chemistry: Principles and practices for material assay. Mass Spectrometric Isotope Ratio Measurements: Techniques for accurate isotope ratio measurement. Mass Spectrometry: Method development, troubleshooting, and maintenance of TIMS/ICPMS. Metrology: Data evaluation, quality control, and uncertainty estimation. Languages: Excellent English (oral and written). Other official IAEA languages are an asset.

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