Staff Scientist I, Research Cores

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Overview

The Center for Cellular and Molecular Imaging (CCMI) Electron Microscopy (EM) Core Facility at Yale School of Medicine provides state-of-the-art instrumentation, technical expertise, and imaging services to researchers across the Yale scientific community. The successful candidate will join a diverse and highly collaborative team supporting a broad range of biological electron microscopy applications.

This position provides hands-on involvement in the complete electron microscopy workflow, from biological sample preparation to image acquisition and analysis. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in the biological sciences, be highly motivated to learn new skills, and demonstrate the ability to follow established protocols while working independently. Success in this role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, excellent interpersonal skills, and the ability to work effectively with facility staff and researchers in a service-oriented environment.

This full-time position offers extensive opportunities for professional development and training in advanced electron microscopy techniques and instrumentation. The incumbent will report directly to the Director of the CCMI Electron Microscopy Core Facility.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Prepare biological specimens for transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), including chemical fixation, resin embedding, ultramicrotomy and image acquisition.

• Operate and maintain electron microscopes and associated laboratory equipment following operating procedures.

• Train and assist facility users in the operation of electron microscopes and related instrumentation.

• Learn and perform advanced electron microscopy techniques, including electron tomography (ET), Focused Ion Beam Scanning Electron Microscopy (FIB-SEM) volume imaging, and correlative light and electron microscopy (CLEM).

• Maintain accurate records of laboratory procedures, imaging data, and service activities.

• Work collaboratively with facility staff and researchers to ensure timely, high-quality service and support.

• Contribute to a positive, professional, and team-oriented work environment.

Required Skills and Abilities

1. Proven experience in sample preparation for microscopy and familiarity with the research lab setting.

2. Familiar with cell biology and biological imaging techniques.

3. Ability to work independently after training while effectively managing multiple responsibilities. Reliability to work independently and support other team members.

4. Proven ability to work cooperatively with colleagues, students, and researchers in a collaborative, customer-focused environment. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

5. Demonstrated ability to learn new technical skills and adapt to evolving technologies. Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality work.

Preferred Skills and Abilities

1. Master’s Degree in biological sciences and one year of experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

2. Strong knowledge of molecular and cellular biology, and experience with biological electron microscopy.

3. Demonstrated ability to multi-task, and excel in a fast-pace environment.

Principal Responsibilities

1. User Training: Provide technical training and guidance to users of the research core. 2. Experiment Support: Contribute to experimental design, execution, data analysis, and troubleshooting for research projects using established protocols within the research core. 3. Facility/Instrument Support: Support research core operations, including specialized equipment maintenance.  4. Technique Development: Optimize experimental protocols and workflows. 5. Data Analysis/Interpretation: Analyze and interpret complex scientific data. 6. Equipment Procurement: Assist in the installation and maintenance of specialized research core equipment. 7. Professional Development: Stay updated with relevant scientific literature and advancements in the field. Participate in professional development activities and scientific conferences. 8. Scientific Participation: Collect and analyze scientific data for manuscript preparation and grant proposals 9. Vendor Relations: Maintains vendor relationships, evaluates products, and collaborate