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Assistant-Associate Project Scientist Position– Cryo-Electron Microscopy – QB3 Institute

Overview:
Recent advances in cryo-electron microscopy have made cryo-EM highly competitive with x-ray crystallography for determining near-atomic or atomic resolution structures of large biological macromolecules. Accordingly, the demand for cryo-EM use among structural biologists is rapidly increasing. However, the infrastructure for acquiring cryo-EM data and managing a large user base lags far behind that of x-ray crystallography beam lines at synchrotron sources. This position will enable structural biologists at the University to develop a robust “beam line” model for cryo- EM facilities.

Responsibilities:
Two electron microscopes presently located in Donner Hall will be used as a “test-bed” for developing a user facility concept, analogous to the approaches used at x-ray synchroton beam lines for macromolecular crystallography. The "test-bed" phase will take about 2 years to complete, after which we'd open up the Participating Research Team to additional users. The candidate will provide managerial oversight for and participate in research activities of a participating research team from multiple groups that use these electron microscopes for studies of molecular and subcellular structure. The candidate will also develop the logistics of the user facility concept by working with teams from the various groups.

Essential Duties:
1. Coordinate scheduling and set-up of systems involving a Philips CM200 electron microscope, a JEOL3100 electron microscope, and associated equipment.
2. Participate in projects that use cryo-electron microscopy and related techniques to investigate macromolecular complexes and subcellular structures.
3. Be primary contact for user training on these electron microscopes.
4. Troubleshoot and resolve problems associated with operation of these electron microscopes.
5. Serve as liaison with outside vendors for repairs and routine maintenance.
6. Assist in preparing specimens and developing new methods for sample preparation.
7. Maintain detailed and accurate written accounts of work and log for scheduling and maintenance of microscopes.

Minimum/Basic Qualifications required at the time of application:
The candidate will have a PhD or equivalent in biophysics, structural biology or related field.

Additional Qualifications required by start date:
The candidate will have demonstrated expertise in electron microscopy, including preparation and examination of specimens, with specific experience with JEOL 3100 microscopes. In addition, the candidate will have the computing skills to manage computer systems related to EM data collection, processing, and back-up.

Preferred Qualifications:
Extensive familiarity with EM hardware, EM software, and cryo-EM data acquisition is highly preferred as he/she will show users how to use the microscope, and likely work with users directly to acquire images.

Experience using Philips electron microscomes as well as with K2 Summit detectors used in “movie” mode.

Ability to work effectively as part of a team and interact with a diverse group of individuals. Excellent communication skills to manage multiple users from different research teams.

Annual Salary Range: $56,200-72,900. This is a full-time, one-year position with the possibility of extension.