Consultant - Toxic Element Species measurement in Food
Organizational Context
The Department of Nuclear Sciences and Applications, through its Joint FAO/IAEA Centre, utilizes nuclear and isotopic techniques to enhance food security and promote sustainable agriculture in Member States. This involves supporting national capacities in food safety and control systems, with a focus on analytical methods for toxic contaminants. The work is conducted within laboratories in Seibersdorf, Monaco, and Vienna.
Job Purpose
This consultancy aims to advance the development of analytical methods for detecting, identifying, and quantifying toxic elemental species in food. It includes refining sample preparation techniques to support the improvement of food safety and control systems within Member States. The role directly contributes to addressing concerns regarding toxic food contaminants, ensuring safer food supplies and enhancing the capacity of national laboratories to perform sophisticated analyses.
Responsibilities
The consultant will provide expert input for the development and optimization of analytical methods, specifically using LC-/IC-ICP-MS techniques for toxic elemental species in food, including sample preparation. Responsibilities include contributing to the validation and documentation of method protocols and Standard Operating Procedures. The role also involves providing technical input for training materials on chemical speciation analysis and LC-/IC-ICP-MS applications. Furthermore, the consultant will share expertise with the Food Safety and Control Laboratory team through lectures, presentations, and practical training, and contribute to the preparation, review, and publication of technical reports and scientific manuscripts.
Work Experience
A minimum of five years of experience in Analytical Chemistry, with a primary focus on Chemical Speciation in food, is necessary. Practical research and development experience in method development for toxic element species analysis using LC-/IC-ICP-MS, including sample preparation, is essential.
Skills
Expertise in analytical method development for toxic elemental species in food; proficiency in LC-/IC-ICP-MS techniques; experience in sample preparation for speciation analysis; ability to validate and document analytical protocols; experience in preparing technical reports and scientific publications; strong oral and written English communication skills.