Stanford University is seeking a Life Science Research Professional 2 to perform more complex functions and activities involved in defined research projects, and independently conduct a portion of the research project(s) as well as support the operation of our expanding, state-of-the-art electron microscopy facility. The facility includes 1 Aquilos FIB milling machine, 2 Titan Krios microscopes anwid DEDs, 2 Glacios microscopes, and negative stain TEMs for single-particle and tomography studies. The facility will be staffed by 6-7 team members. This team member, along with others, will be responsible for oversight and maintenance of the Aquilos as well as training and assisting users. The cryo-FIB milling specialist will have ample opportunities to advance and grow professionally within our research environment, which includes the scientific communities at both Stanford and SLAC.
Duties include:
- Independently operate and maintain the Aquilos FIB milling machine and prepare samples.
- Independently conduct a portion of the research project(s). Make recommendations on experimental design and/or research direction to principal investigator.
- Independently conduct complex (lab and/or field) experiments to gather data for a portion of a major research project.
- Interpret and analyze results, often where few guidelines exist, and make modifications to existing procedures and protocols.
- Train and oversee users for FIB milling.
- Evaluate quality of data obtained by users.
- Interface and collaborate with High Performance Computing team, who will assist with computational needs for optimal acquisition.
- Implement data collection strategies that will benefit our user community.
- Implement new tomography workflows for the benefit of our user community.
- Maintain accurate logs for Aquilos performance and usage.
- Develop new research protocols where appropriate protocols are not described in the literature or where modification or adaptation of standard procedures and protocols is required.
- Participate in multidisciplinary teams across different faculties or schools.
- Perform ongoing literature review to remain current with new procedures and related research; apply to ongoing research and development of new protocols.
- Contribute substantively to the preparation of papers for publication, especially in the results section, and to publication of findings. Present ongoing work to colleagues and/or academic conferences.
- Work with health and safety department to ensure lab complies with regulations and all required trainings.
- Supervise (either formally or informally) staff or students as needed, including oversight and direction on techniques, as well as consultation on project work. Serve as a technical resource for other research staff.
- Oversee the daily activities of the laboratory including lab maintenance; maintain lab stock, manage chemical inventory and safety records, and provide general lab support as needed. May assist with purchasing laboratory equipment.
- Other duties may also be assigned.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
PhD or M.S. Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Structural Biology, Bioengineering, Physics or related field. 2-3 years of cryo-FIB milling and SEM experience with expertise in handling samples. Experience with cryo-ET, including microscope operation and evaluating data, is a plus. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Solid understanding of the principles cryoFIB milling and SEM. Familiarity with of computational image processing and analysis of cryo-ET images. General understanding of cryo-ET; understanding of single-particle analysis is a plus.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE (REQUIRED): Bachelor's degree in related scientific field and two years of relevant work experience; or Master’s degree in a related scientific field.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (REQUIRED):
- Comprehensive understanding of scientific principles.
- General computer skills and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs, databases, and scientific applications.
- Strong analytical skills and excellent judgment.
- Ability to maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
- Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance is essential.
- Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to accurately complete detailed work.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Frequently stand, walk, twist, bend, stoop, squat, grasp lightly, use fine manipulation, grasp forcefully, perform desk-based computer tasks, use telephone, write by hand, lift, carry, push and pull objects weighing over 40 pounds.
- Occasionally sit, kneel, crawl, reach and work above shoulders, sort and file paperwork or parts.
- Rarely climb, scrub, sweep, mop, chop and mix or operate hand and foot controls.
- Must have correctible vision to perform duties of the job.
- Ability to bend, squat, kneel, stand, reach above shoulder level, and move on hard surfaces for up to eight hours.
- Ability to lift heavy objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
- Ability to work in a dusty, dirty, and odorous environment.
- Position may require repetitive motion.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
- May require working in close proximity to blood borne pathogens.
- May require work in an environment where animals are used for teaching and research.
- Position may at times require the employee to work with or be in areas where hazardous materials and/or infectious diseases are present.
- Employee must perform tasks that require the use of personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses and shoes, protective clothing and gloves, and possibly a respirator.
- May require extended or unusual work hours based on research requirements and business needs.
WORK STANDARDS:
Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations. Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for safety; communicates safety concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors bases on training and lessons learned. Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University’s Administrative Guide.
