Analytical Chemistry Fellow

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) is a leading 501(c)(3)  nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting human health and the environment. For over three decades, EWG has conducted groundbreaking research, public education, and advocacy to address critical environmental health issues. Our work empowers individuals, drives corporate accountability, and informs policy decisions to create a healthier and safer future.

EWG seeks a one-year Analytical Chemistry Fellow with expertise in analytical chemistry to lead research efforts related to microplastics and nanoplastics. This fellowship involves conducting laboratory testing, developing analytical processes, performing data analysis, and supporting policy development. The successful candidate will work closely with EWG’s Science team to produce peer-reviewed publications, analyze environmental and consumer product samples, and present findings to diverse audiences.

Key Responsibilities:

Research and Analysis

• Perform qualitative and quantitative analysis of microplastic and nanoplastic samples using advanced analytical techniques such as mass spectrometry, FTIR, Raman spectroscopy, and SEM.
• Develop and validate new analytical processes and methods for detecting and characterizing plastic polymers in environmental, food, and consumer product samples.
• Conduct sampling, isolation, concentration, and preservation of samples for accurate analysis.
• Validate and verify results through calibration, standardization, and quality assurance practices to ensure consistency with documented and peer-reviewed research procedures.

Data Interpretation and Communication

• Interpret data in the proper scientific and environmental health context.
• Create clear, actionable conclusions and communicate results to other scientists, policymakers, and general audiences.
• Contribute to the development of policy recommendations based on research findings.
• Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals and present research results at conferences, webinars, and public forums.

Support for Policy Development

• Perform literature reviews to support ongoing research and advocacy efforts.
• Provide data analysis to inform and strengthen EWG’s environmental health policies and initiatives.

Qualifications and Skills:

• Doctoral degree in environmental science, analytical chemistry, or a related field.
• Demonstrated research experience in analytical chemistry, particularly involving mass spectrometry.
• Published peer-reviewed articles that incorporate mass spectrometry methods.

• Expertise in sampling, validating, and interpreting data using techniques such as FTIR, Raman spectroscopy, and SEM.
• Ability to create new analytical methods and perform separations based on differential chemical properties.
• Strong quality assurance skills to ensure consistency with documented procedures.

• Research experience related to plastic polymers, microplastics, and nanoplastics.
• A solid understanding of environmental health and policy development.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to translate complex scientific findings into actionable insights for diverse audiences.

Location: EWG is a Washington D.C. based organization, but the location of this position is flexible within the continental US and there is an expectation that a significant portion of the year will be spent in one or multiple academic research laboratories. This position has the ability to be remote.

Compensation: Annual salary range of  $120,000-$150,000.  Salary is commensurate with experience. EWG offers fully paid, excellent health care, paid parental leave and a tax-deferred 403(b) plan, including matched contributions. 

EWG’s commitment to diversity and inclusion:

EWG celebrates diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We are proud to foster a work environment that supports, inspires and respects all individuals. EWG does not discriminate against any employee or applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, citizenship, ancestry, marital status, family responsibilities, physical or mental disability, military or veteran status, medical condition, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, matriculation or political affiliation, or any other protected class recognized in any of the jurisdictions where EWG has offices or employees working. We adhere to these principles in all aspects of employment, including recruitment, hiring, training, and compensation and promotion.

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