Biologist; Electron Microscopy

Position Objective

The Biologist will provide support services to satisfy the overall operational objectives of the National Institute on Aging (NIA) within the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The primary objective is to provide research services and deliverables through performance of support services for the Confocal Imaging Facility core of the NIA IRP.

• Study basic principles of plant and animal life, such as origin, relationship, development, anatomy, and function

• Identify, classify, and study structure, behavior, ecology, physiology, nutrition, culture, and distribution of plant and animal species

• Proficiency in Confocal Microscopy image acquisition and analysis 1

• Proficiency in Immunohistochemistry IHC and ICC and immunofluorescence IF techniques 4

• Functional knowledge of super-resolution microscopy techniques 5

• Sample preparation for transmission electron microscopy (TEM); fixation, resin embedding, ultrathin sectioning, post staining, immunogold labeling and negative staining. 2 2

• Preparation of solutions and chemicals 3

• Troubleshooting and optimizing laboratory protocols and instrumentation.

• User training and support.

• Operate laboratory equipment to analyze samples

• Analyze laboratory findings

• Operation of the TEM and support equipment

• Responsible for a clean and organized laboratory.

• User training and support.

• Program and use computers to store, process, and analyze data

• Interpret research or operational data

• Record research or operational data

• Pursue the research goals of the laboratory by conducting wet-lab works

• Work with staff on performing various experiments and procedures

• Harvest and collect mouse embryos, tissues and organs

• Perform histological techniques, including tissue and or whole-mount in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry

• Prepare and organize various lab samples

• Conduct molecular biological analyses

• Provide a broad range of technical assistance to laboratory members

• Maintain laboratory supplies, equipment and experimental records

• Provide support for ordering reagents and equipment required for the laboratory

• Work products and documents related to conducting wet-lab works including harvesting and collecting mouse embryos, tissues and organs; perform histological techniques; conduct various molecular biological analyses.

• Monthly Work products and documents related to maintaining the laboratory’s supplies, equipment and experimental records.

• Clean Equipment, Run Validation, Inspect Equipment, Meet with lab members to present updates, Work products and documents related to training and supervising researchers in confocal microscopy

• Masters Degree in Biology or a related discipline.

• Skilled in Microsoft office suite, FIJI Image J, Zeiss Zen

• Experienced in Confocal Light Microscopy

• Must have 4 years demonstrated experience in a biological research setting with routine classic embedding and sample preparation techniques including ultramicrotomy for electron microscopy methods. Experience with cryo-fixation preparation techniques for cryo electron microscopy is a plus.

• At least 2-5 years of experience using Scanning Electron Microscopes (SEMs) or Transmission Electron microscopes (TEMs).

• Experience with Focused Ion Beam, Scanning Electron Microscopy or other volumetric electron microscopy techniques is a plus.

• Familiarity with automated imaging systems with either light on electron microscopes in a biological research laboratory.

• Experience with digital imaging of biological systems using light microscopy.

• Familiarity with workflow using 3D reconstruction software

• Strong communication skills, both oral and written.

• Detail-oriented and possess strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize multiple tasks and projects.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required by this position.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

This position is contingent upon contract award.