Research Specialist - Cryo FIB-SEM

Summary:

The HHMI cryoEM Shared Resource at Janelia Research Campus is a world-class core facility with a large and diverse user base. It serves the entire HHMI community nationwide for cutting-edge research in structural and cellular biology. The facility currently hosts three highly configured Titan Krios microscopes, with a 4th Krios microscope being installed, an Aquilos2 cryo focused ion beam scanning electron microscope (cryo FIB-SEM), a Hydra plasma cryo FIB-SEM, multiple screening electron microscopes, cryo light microscopes, and cryo grids preparation equipment.

The main function of the facility is 1) high-throughput, high-quality data collection on user-provided ready-to-image cryo grids utilizing either single particle or cryo-electron tomography; 2) use the cryo FIB-SEM system to mill thick samples for cryo TEM imaging or high resolution SEM imaging; 3) collaborate on research projects with HHMI labs when needed; 4) implement and test new methods/protocols to better help users.

The facility is currently seeking candidates for a cryo FIB-SEM research specialist position.

What we provide:

• A competitive compensation package, with comprehensive health and welfare benefits.

• Interdependent, team-wide support in daily operations; hands-on training and mentorship.

• Access to world-class researchers, resources, and impactful science as part of your career development.

• The opportunity to contribute your expertise to a shared resource that enables high-quality research.

• Professional development opportunities through internal and external conferences and workshops.

• A healthy work-life balance, with on-site childcare, free gyms, on-campus housing, vibrant social and dining spaces, and shuttle-bus service to Janelia from the Washington, DC metro area!

What you’ll do:

• Maintain and operate cryo FIB-SEM microscopes, light microscopes and various sample preparation equipment.

• Lead experiments on sample preparation, light microscopy, FIB milling and SEM imaging.

• Train and oversee users and staff on sample preparation, light microscopy, cryo FIB milling and SEM imaging.

• Closely work with users inside or outside Janelia to either provide routine services or contribute to collaboration projects.

• Lead or participate in the development and/or implementation of new protocols and methods for sample preparation, screening, instrument operation, data collection and data curation.

• Actively seek opportunities to expand own skill set and incorporate new innovations into facility workflow.

• Communicate frequently and work closely with other team members, users and other research facilities to plan and execute experiments.

• Log and troubleshoot equipment issues, communicate and work with colleagues and vendor engineers to fix equipment issues.

• Maintain daily experimental logs for equipment usage and manage sample storage.

• Bookkeep and maintain records for projects and experiments. Summarize experimental results and communicate with team members and users to report progress.

• Bookkeep and manage lab supplies and proactively order supplies before running out.

What you bring:

• Master’s degree with 4+ years research experiences, or PhD degree.

• Experiences in cryo-FIB, or cryoEM are preferred.

• Experiences in cell biology, structural biology, or biochemistry are a plus.

• Motivated and willing to learn, develop, and test new methods, techniques, tools, and technologies.

• Demonstrated ability to work in a highly interactive and rapidly changing environment, and being able to handle multitask.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills and ability to work closely and collaboratively with colleagues and users.

• Enthusiastic to take on new challenges.

• Good knowledge and practical skills with computers, linux operating system, bash scripting and simple programming in Python is a plus.

Physical Requirements

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet). Work may involve possible exposure to malodorous vapors, low dose radiation, contamination by toxic chemicals and acids and presence of carcinogenic substances or other hazardous materials.

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Please Note:

This job description sets forth the job’s principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however. Unless they begin with the word “may,” the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are “essential functions” of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

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