Research Technician II - CryoET

Company: Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI)
Location: Chevy Chase
Posted on: January 23, 2025

Job Description:

Primary Work Address: 19700 Helix Drive, Ashburn, VA, 20147The Howard Hughes Medical Institute's Janelia Research Campus is a pioneering research center in Ashburn, Virginia, where scientists pursue fundamental questions in the life sciences. Our integrated teams of biologists, computational scientists, and tool-builders innovate research practices and technologies to solve biology's deepest mysteries. HHMI launched Janelia in 2006, establishing an intellectually enriching environment for scientists to do creative, collaborative, hands-on work. We share our methods, results, and tools with the scientific community.Summary:The HHMI CryoEM Shared Resource at Janelia Research Campus is a world class shared cryoEM facility with a large and diverse user base. It serves the entire HHMI community nationwide for cutting-edge research in structural and cellular biology. The facility hosts 3 Titan Krios microscopes for single-particle and tomography data collection, an Aquilos cryo FIB (Focus Ion Beam) milling machine, a Hydra plasma cryo FIBSEM for TEM sample preparation, and a TF20 and a T12 electron microscopes for cryo/negative stain sample screening. There are also a Leica cryo-CLEM and a Leica Coral cryo-confocal light microscopes and various sample freezing equipment including Leica GP2, FEI Vitrobot, and Chameleon systems. The facility is currently seeking candidates for a Research Technician position.About the role:In this role, you will support the operation of the cryo-electron microscopy facility and participate in collaborative research projects.Specifically, you will prepare samples, carry out cryo-FIB milling experiments, interact closely with users, maintain and operate various sample preparation equipment as well as carry out certain administrative tasks.What we provide:

• A competitive compensation package, with comprehensive health and welfare benefits.
• Interdependent, team-wide support in daily operations; hands-on training and mentorship.
• Access to world-class researchers, resources, and impactful science as part of your career development.
• The opportunity to contribute your skills to a shared resource that enables high-quality research.
• Professional development opportunities through internal and external conferences and workshops.
• A healthy work-life balance, with on-site childcare, free gyms, on-campus housing, vibrant social and dining spaces, and shuttle-bus service to Janelia from Washington, DC metro area!What you'll do:
  • Maintain and operate various sample preparation equipment and prepare samples.
  • Maintain and operate cryo-Focused Ion Beam Scanning Electron Microscopes (cryo-FIBSEMs) to carry out cryo-FIB milling and imaging experiments for users.
  • Train and oversee users for cryo-FIB milling.
  • Maintain daily experimental logs for cryo-FIB machine usage, or other equipment usage.
  • Maintain and operate cryo light microscopes to do correlative light and electron microscopy (CLEM).
  • Communicate frequently and work closely with other team members and users to plan and execute experiments. Maintain records for projects and experiments.
  • Manage and order lab supplies. Manage administrative tasks related to monthly billing.
  • Regularly check and refill or replace liquid nitrogen tanks, ship dry shippers.What you bring:
    • Bachelor's degree in related scientific field and two years of relevant work experience; or Master's degree in a related scientific field.
    • Cryo FIBSEM experience with expertise in handling samples is preferred.
    • General understanding of cryo-ET and single-particle analysis is a plus.
    • Ability to work effectively to meet deadlines.
    • Flexibility to handle unexpected equipment issues and change of plan.
    • Ability to use small lab tools to handle small and fragile EM samples with attention to details.
    • Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to accurately complete detailed work and maintain thorough and accurate records.
    • Use cryogen and pressured tanks/cylinders.
    • General computer skills and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs, databases, and scientific applications.
    • Demonstrated ability to work in a collaborative and rapidly changing environment.
    • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills and ability to work closely with colleagues and users.Physical RequirementsRemaining 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 or other hazardous materials.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.#LI-BG1Compensation 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 site to learn more.Compensation Range$45,760.00 (minimum) - $57,200.00 (midpoint) - $74,360.00 (maximum)Pay Type:AnnualHHMI's salary structure is developed based on relevant job market data. HHMI considers a candidate's education, previous experiences, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal equity when making job offers. Typically, a new hire for this position in this location is compensated between the minimum and the midpoint of the salary range.

Keywords: Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI), Columbia , Research Technician II - CryoET, Professions , Chevy Chase, Maryland