Research Technician - CryoEM and Electron Microscopy

Primary Work Address: 19700 Helix Drive, Ashburn, VA, 20147

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Janelia Research Campus is a pioneering research center in Ashburn, Virginia, where scientists pursue fundamental questions in neuroscience and imaging. The Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) launched Janelia in 2006, establishing an intellectually distinctive environment for scientists to do creative, collaborative, hands-on work.   Our integrated teams of biologists, computational scientists, and tool-builders pursue a small number of scientific questions with potential for transformative impact.  We share our methods, results, and tools with the scientific community.  It is a uniquely innovative and collaborative atmosphere that reflects HHMI’s reputation for excellence.

Summary: The Electron Microscopy and CryoEM Shared Resources at HHMI Janelia Research Campus serve a large and diverse user base. The two facilities host state-of-the-art equipment and help users carry out experiments involving structural studies of various biological samples from purified protein complexes, to cells, tissues and organs. The two facilities are now seeking candidates to fill a joint Research Technician position.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Clip and Load cryo grids for the Titan Krios microscope

• Learn to operate and maintain various sample preparation equipment and prepare samples

• Learn to operate the cryo Focused Ion Beam system and help carry out experiments

• Learn to use an X-ray microscope to image resin-embedded samples and trim the sample with an ultramicrotome

• Receive, manage and return users’ sample, container, hard drive or similar equipment and communicated closely with users to plan and execute these tasks

• Manage and order lab supplies

• Regularly check and replace liquid nitrogen tanks and gas cylinders

• Manage various sample storage

• Help manage equipment scheduler, chargebacks and lab documents

• Interact with users and provide support and help when needed

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in a science field

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience:

• Prior experience working in a scientific research lab setting

Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to use small lab tools to handle small and fragile EM samples with attention to details    

• Properly use cryogen and pressured tanks/cylinders

• Demonstrated ability to work in a collaborative and rapidly changing environment to learn new skills and accomplish goals

• Excellent communication skills and work closely with colleagues and users

Physical Requirements

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet). Work may involve possible exposure to malodorous vapors, low dose radiation, contamination by toxic chemicals and acids and presence of carcinogenic substances.

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Please Note:

This job description sets forth the job’s principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however.  Unless they begin with the word “may,” the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are “essential functions” of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Compensation and Benefits

Our employees are compensated from a total rewards perspective in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Visit our Benefits at HHMI site to learn more. 

HHMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer