C951-Light Microscopy Specialist

[Salk Institute- HR Dept.]

The Salk Institute for Biological Studies: Biophotonics Core Facility

The Waitt Advanced Biophotonics Center Core Facility, at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies, is seeking a highly motivated, technically oriented individual to train Salk researchers in the use of and operate various light microscopy instruments in support of Salk's scientific initiatives. The Biophotonics Core is a recharge facility in rapid growth mode with the ultimate goal of integrating technical imaging approaches in the biological research programs at the Institute. The core will facilitate access to and provide logistical support for Salk researchers in: fluorescence microscopy, fixed and live cell confocal microscopy, total-internal-reflection (TIRF) microscopy, multi-photon microscopy, Coherent Anti-Stokes Raman (CARS) microscopy, and super-resolution microscopy as well as scanning and transmission electron microscopy methods.

The Light Microscopy Specialist will assist the Biophotonics Core Director in assisting researchers on experimental design, training users in various imaging modalities supported by the core, as well as helping with image processing and data analysis methods.

Key activities include:

• Train and support Salk researchers in the use of the following methods: brightfield microscopy, fluorescence microscopy, fixed and live cell confocal microscopy, total-internal-reflection (TIRF) microscopy, multi-photon/CARS microscopy and super-resolution microscopy. Assist and train researchers in the optimization of sample preparation using immunofluorescence techniques.
• Assist and train researchers on the use of appropriate data analysis methods and train users in the use of analysis program such as Metamorph and Imaris.
• Manage billing of recharges to Salk researchers.
• Stay informed of technical developments in the imaging and microscopy field by attending imaging workshops and conferences.
• In conjunction with the Core Director, introduce new imaging technologies to the Salk research community via seminars and technical demonstrations.
• Maintain and troubleshoot core facilities instrumentation and infrastructure as well as liaise with manufacturer representatives on a regular basis. Sustain functional tissue culture space and equipment within the core to facilitate live cell imaging experiments.
• In conjunction with other core members, monitor, order and replenish essential supplies within the facility to ensure uninterrupted core service.

Education: This position is appropriate for a graduate of biological or biophysical sciences or biomedical engineering with experience in light and fluorescence microscopy methods. Minimum requirement is a BS degree with 3 years of experience, preferably in a core environment. Applicants with postgraduate degrees are preferred and are encouraged to apply if they feel they have the necessary qualifications for the position.

Experience: The ideal candidate will have a biological or biophysical sciences or biomedical engineering background with 3 years of experience in light and fluorescence microscopy, preferably in a core environment. Strong communication skills both oral and written are required. Of particular importance is the ability to communicate clearly with biologists with little or no formal training in microscopy methods.

Special Requirements: Candidates must be able to work in a fast-paced, cutting-edge research environment and be able to work a flexible schedule to accommodate research needs. Incumbent should be an efficient multi-tasker, detailed record-keeper, innovative problem solver and possess excellent communication and organization skills to perform job duties with minimal supervision. The selected candidate, although expected to have existing experience with the aforementioned imaging modalities, will be trained on our in-house instrumentation as well as having the opportunity to attend external training courses as appropriate.

Applications accepted until a suitable candidate is found. Interested applicants apply online at http://salk.edu/careers/staff_positions.html and include a cover letter outlining prior research and core facility experience along with a resume/CV.