Research Specialist - Light Microscopy

The Research Specialist will provide image acquisition and analysis services to Janelia researchers. You will work closely with Janelia researchers to assist them in rapidly evaluating, configuring, and implementing facility microscopes, while providing guidance on sample preparation and mounting as well as optimizing acquisition parameters and imaging conditions. Primary responsibilities include maintaining, operating, and providing training for commercial equipment in addition to custom-built instruments. You will also organize training workshops for researchers on microscope optics, existing and new technologies, software, and instrumentation.

What we provide:

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

• Interdependent, team-wide support in daily operations.

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

• Opportunities for educational outreach, such as teaching microscopy-focused workshops.

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

• 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 Washington, DC metro area! 

What you’ll do:

• Provide consultation to users on how to best use the available imaging resources to achieve their research goals.

• Maintain a full complement of state-of-the-art microscopy equipment to include: regularly checking the performance of the optical systems, performing necessary alignments and calibrations or interface with microscope manufacturers, suppliers, and service staff to complete these tasks.

• Serve as a resident expert on all optical systems at the facility with thorough understanding of their operations, applications, and associated software.

• Provide training in the use of microscopes and image analysis software, such as ImageJ/Fiji and Imaris.

• Acquire and analyze images for Janelia researchers, providing imaging services tailored to the exact needs of their studies. Manage temporary data storage and transfer for researcher data.

• Design, evaluate, and perform specialized techniques of sample preparation as needed and/or in collaboration with other Janelia shared resources.

• Organize and/or participate in workshops and training programs on optics and imaging principles that strengthen education and research potential.

What you bring:

• Master’s degree or Ph.D. with at least 3 years of relevant experience.

• Background in applying a wide range of imaging and imaging analysis techniques in biological systems, including cell and tissue samples. Extensive hands-on experience working with multiple biological samples including preparation, optimization, evaluation, and acquisition, is desirable.

• Experience and understanding of emerging optical technologies, including light sheet and confocal microscopy, along with the advantages and challenges associated with their application.

• Ability to quickly comprehend, analyze, and suggest solutions to the specific imaging needs of research projects under development in the labs.

• Demonstrated skills in developing and implementing training programs for microscope systems.

• Strong interpersonal skills to effectively communicate both remotely and in-person (written and verbal) with multiple users and vendors.

• Enthusiastic in enabling high-quality research and comfortable working in a supporting role.

• Familiarity with ImageJ/Fiji and some commercial analysis software, such as Imaris, is preferred.

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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