National High Magnetic Field Laboratory — Mass Spectrometry Research Engineer

2010 to 2011
Tallahassee, Florida
Joseph Mas

I worked within the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory, supporting spectrometry and geochemistry research during a period of high-profile environmental analysis. My role focused on bringing new instrumentation online, optimizing analytical workflows, and ensuring stable, high-quality data across multiple research teams.

This work combined laboratory engineering, instrument calibration, software integration, and hands-on analytical processes required for high-precision spectrometry.


Core Responsibilities

Instrument Setup and Calibration

  • Brought ICP mass spectrometers and supporting systems online
  • Performed hardware calibration, tuning, and optimization for stable operation
  • Conducted sensitivity, resolution, and baseline tests for analytical performance

Analytical Workflow Engineering

  • Designed and refined sample-prep workflows
  • Ensured reproducibility and quality control across large sample batches
  • Conducted validation tests and corrected process deviations

Data Integration and Software Systems

  • Integrated instrument output with analytical software platforms
  • Developed internal workflows for data import, normalization, and quality review
  • Assisted in the transition of older systems into unified digital processes

Environmental and Geochemical Research Support

  • Contributed to geochemical analysis during the Gulf oil spill research period
  • Collaborated with senior scientists on sample interpretation and method optimization
  • Supported cross-team work involving marine chemistry and environmental signatures

Impact and Legacy

MagLab strengthened my capabilities in precision instrumentation, environmental data analysis, and workflow engineering. These skills directly influenced my later development of structured data systems, diagnostic frameworks, and analytical methodologies used in enterprise-level digital platforms.