Operations Director for Cryo-EM Core

Description

The Johns Hopkins University invites applications for Operations Director of the Cryo-EM Core located on the Homewood Campus.  This is a full-time, non-tenure track position supported by the Krieger School of Arts and Sciences.  The Cryo-EM Core houses instrumentation serving the diverse research interests of Johns Hopkins University.  The current scope of the Homewood cryo-EM facility includes: 1 Titan Krios, 1 Helios Hydra Bio (to be purchased), 1 Talos200, 1 T12, all sample preparation tools such as Vitrobot, and initial data storage/transfer and pre-processing capabilities.

The Operations Director of the Cryo-EM shared resource core at Johns Hopkins University (Homewood Campus)  is responsible for the scientific and strategic oversight, as well as the implementation of state-of-the-art technologies for cryo-EM imaging, in support of research projects of a broad spectrum of faculty from our institution. The Operations Director will interface closely with their counterpart, the Operations Director of the cryo-EM core at the School of Medicine Campus, to implement a world-class cryo-EM facility across Johns Hopkins campuses, which together will function as an integrated team, sharing expertise and support.  The Operations director will maintain a high level of professional expertise and scientific networking within the global cryo-EM community.

 Responsibilities:

 ●       Implement and maintain state-of-the-art technologies and expertise on the Homewood campus that will support cryo-EM and cryo-ET data collection. Ensure that all instrumentation and equipment operate efficiently and produce data of the highest possible quality. Maintain appropriate documentation for the shared resource.

●       Train users to become independent in sample preparation, microscope use, data collection, and initial pre-processing of data. Create and implement educational programs that will serve the needs of the scientific user community and promote the scientific programs of the cryo-EM shared resource.

●       Attract and retain outstanding research staff to support daily operations as needed.

●       Supervise staff scientists to ensure the highest standards of microscope operation, data production and collaboration with lab members.

●       Communicate ongoing progress to user groups and advisory committees and act as a key interface to engage new projects across the Johns Hopkins campuses.

●       Integrate with the Operations Director and support staff at the cryo-EM facility at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine to support each-other’s technical and operational goals, ensuring that resources are accessible to all users across Hopkins.

●       Participate in external funding applications, e.g. instrumentation grants, large-scale Center grants and collaborative grant applications, which will be essential for the health of cryo-EM. Provide support for Johns Hopkins investigators in obtaining preliminary data and writing grant applications aimed at obtaining research grants involving cryo-EM applications.

●       Communicate with vendors about maintenance and upgrade of equipment as well as opportunities offered by new instrumentation, thus ensuring that the shared resource represents the state-of-the-art in cryo-EM.

●       Work with leadership in the Departments of Biology and Biophysics, and the Krieger School of Arts and Sciences, in developing budgets and meeting financial expectations of the cryo-EM shared resource

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

• Ph.D. qualification coupled with a three-year background in practical cryo-EM applications within a technical or research laboratory setting.

Preferred Qualifications:

●      Doctoral degree in biochemistry, biology, chemistry, physics, or a related field.

●      Proficiency in utilizing Thermo Fisher Scientific microscopes and grid preparation tools, including Vitrobot, CP3-Plunger, and other associated instruments.

●      Specialized knowledge in contemporary cryo-EM methodologies, encompassing data collection (EPU, Serial EM, or Leginon) and proficiency in various image processing software packages (Relion, cryoSPARC, EMAN2, cisTEM, Sphire).

●      Previous involvement in structural biology, particularly in macromolecular model construction using tools such as Chimera and Coot, along with experience in employing structure validation tools.

●      Exceptional technical acumen, effective communication skills, and a demonstrated ability in teaching.

 

Application Instructions

Applications should be submitted electronically to Interfolio http://apply.interfolio.com/141299

Candidates should include a cover letter describing their principal expertise and accomplishments, a complete resume, and the names and contact informa