Description
POSITION OBJECTIVE
Working under moderate supervision, the Research Assistant 1 supports cryogenic electron tomography (cryo-ET) research in the laboratory at the Department of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Medicine. The research assistant is primarily responsible for cryogenic focused ion beam (cryo-FIB) milling of cellular samples to prepare lamella for cryo-ET data collection. This position contributes to multiple projects in the lab that are funded by NIH grants.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Operate cryo-focused ion beam/scanning electron microscopy (cryo-FIB/SEM) instrumentation, including Thermo Fisher Aquilos systems, to perform CLEM workflows, cryogenic imaging, target identification, lamella preparation, and related workflows for structural biology research projects. (50%)
Operate cryo-electron microscopy instrumentation, including Thermo Fisher Glacios and Titan Krios microscopes, to assess grid and lamella quality. Record experimental parameters, maintain imaging records, organize microscopy datasets to support reproducibility and research objectives. (20%)
Cryogenic sample preparation and cryo-EM Support: Prepare biological specimens for cryo-electron microscopy workflows, including grid preparation, glow discharge, sample vitrification, cryogenic handling, and quality assessment. Assist with preparation and transfer of samples for downstream cryo-FIB and cryo-ET experiments. (15%)
Coordinate and maintain general laboratory supplies and inventory, including placing orders, receiving shipments, and other laboratory materials needed to support research operations. (10%)
NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Participate in laboratory meetings, assist with training of new laboratory personnel on established protocols, and perform other duties as assigned. (5%)
Perform other duties as assigned. (<1%)
CONTACTS
Department: Daily contact with principal investigator and lab members to discuss research, maintain workflow, for lab operation/management issues, ordering, and reimbursement etc.
University: None
External: Infrequent contact with vendors to exchange information and place orders.
Students: Occasional contact with students who shadow/observe the research.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY
This position has no direct supervision of staff employees.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education/Experience: Bachelor's degree in science and 0 to 1 year of experience or Associate's degree in an approved biotechnology program and 0 to 2 years of experience required.
REQUIRED SKILLS
Basic knowledge of biological systems and biomedicine research.
Ability to perform delicate manual tasks requiring fine motor skills while working with cryogenic materials and microscopy samples.
Demonstrated organizational skills with the ability to coordinate multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and maintain laboratory operations.
Ability to smoothly communicate with colleagues, supervisors and students.
Any experience with electron microscopy will be preferably considered.
Ability to meet consistent attendance.
Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors, and customers face to face.
Ability to demonstrate successful support, education, and advocacy for all students, aligned with the values, mission, and messaging of the university, while adhering to the staff policy on conflict of commitment and interest.
Willingness to learn and work with Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools and technologies.
WORKING CONDITIONS
General laboratory environment. May have exposure to cryogenic hazards and biohazards. Personal protective equipment, including lab coat, gloves and goggles, will be provided to limit exposure to hazards.
