The Salk Institute for Biological Studies-Light Microscopy Specialist (C400)

[Salk Institute- HR Dept.]

The Waitt Advanced Biophotonics Center Core Facility, at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies, is seeking a highly motivated, technically oriented individual to operate and train Salk researchers in the use of 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, and Coherent Anti-Stokes Raman (CARS) 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 Salk researchers in the use of the following methods: fluorescence microscopy, fixed and live cell confocal microscopy, total-internal-reflection (TIRF) microscopy, and multi-photon/CARS microscopy.
■Assist researchers in the optimization of histological sample preparation using immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry techniques.
■Assist researchers on appropriate data analysis methods and train users in the use of analysis program such as Metamorph and Imaris.
■Assist Core Director in billing recharges to Salk researchers.
■Identify new imaging technologies that could benefit Institute initiatives. Stay informed of technical developments in the field of Biophotonics 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 core facilities instrumentation and infrastructure as well as liaise with manufacturer representatives on a regular basis.

Education:

This position is appropriate for a graduate of biological or biophysical sciences or biomedical engineering with experience in light microscopy methods. Minimum requirement is a BS degree. Applicants with postgraduate degrees 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 experience in light 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, and possess excellent 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 through June 18th, 2010.
Interested applicants should include a cover letter outlining prior research and core facility experience along with a resume/CV.

Apply through the Salk Institute online application at http://salk.edu/careers/staff_positions.html