Job No. 156802
- Job Title:
- Green Chemistry Scientist II
- Employer:
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Rochester Institute of Technology
- Location:
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Rochester , NY
- Posting Date:
- 21-Oct-2025
- Description:
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Job Summary
The New York State Pollution Prevention Institute (NYSP2I) is seeking a sustainability driven and research-oriented Green Chemist to support our Green Chemistry and Emerging Contaminants Program. This role is ideal for a chemist or environmental scientist with a strong foundation in green chemistry, environmental health and toxicology, and analytical techniques, who is passionate about applying science to sustainability challenges across New York State industries.
Job Responsibilities
Conduct literature reviews and secondary research on emerging contaminants, safer chemical alternatives, and green chemistry innovations to inform technical assistance projects, regulatory recommendations, and program development. This includes synthesizing peer-reviewed studies, government reports, and industry data to identify trends, summarize current developments in the field, and target opportunities for chemical replacement.
Support technical assessments and special projects requested by NYSDEC and other stakeholders by contributing scientific expertise in chemistry and chemical analysis, environmental health and safety, and sustainability. This may include evaluating chemical performance, assessing hazards and potential exposure pathways, and identifying safer alternatives or mitigation strategies.
Collaborate with internal technical staff, external partners, and regulatory agencies to co-develop project scopes, align research with regulatory priorities, and support chemical substitution assessments. This includes participating in interdisciplinary teams to evaluate human health and environmental impacts and develop practical solutions for industry.
Participate in site visits and stakeholder meetings to gather contextual information, validate research findings, and engage directly with companies, regulators, and community representatives to ensure that technical recommendations are grounded in real-world conditions and stakeholder needs.
Perform limited laboratory work or analytical testing as needed to support research and validation efforts. This may include basic chemical benchwork, as well as sample preparation, method development, or data interpretation using techniques such as FTIR, GC-MS, or LC-MS, in collaboration with NYSP2I lab staff.
Contribute to outreach, education, and training efforts by developing educational materials, technical resources, and presentations. Deliver presentations and workshops to share knowledge on green chemistry, safer alternatives, and emerging contaminants with industry, academia, and government audiences.
Translate complex scientific information into clear, actionable reports, white papers, and presentations tailored to diverse audiences including policymakers, industry professionals, and community stakeholders. Ensure that findings are communicated in a way that supports informed decision-making and regulatory compliance.
Required Qualifications
Education/Experience:
Minimum of three years of related work experience or an equivalent combination of academic training and work experience may also be considered. Related academic training may include such areas as additional graduate degrees or research, administrative, or teaching duties specifically related to chemistry or chemical hazards.
Skills:
Working knowledge of the principles of green chemistry and their practical applications
Background in environmental, analytical, or organic chemistry
Experience with analytical techniques such as FTIR, GC-MS, LC-MS, or CIC
Familiarity with toxicology, EH&S practices, and regulatory frameworks (e.g., TSCA, REACH, Safer Choice)
Strong research and technical writing skills
Strong oral and written communication skills and ability to synthesize and communicate scientific information to all audiences
Knowledge of key NY State and/or national chemistry issues
The ideal candidate will be a self-directed, strategic thinker
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with NYSDEC programs or environmental policy
Exposure to sustainability-focused academic curricula or industry practices
Experience with stakeholder engagement and public communication
Understanding of toxicology
Existing network of green chemistry experts and participation in national green chemistry forums
Record of publications in green chemistry field
Project management experience including budget and time management
MS in chemistry preferred
- Contact information:
- Rochester Institute of Technology
- Rochester, NY 14623
- United States
- Employer's Website:
-
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