HMS - Research Associate; Cryo-EM Specialist in Harvard Cryo-EM Center Structural Biology

Overview

HMS - Research Associate (Cryo-EM Specialist) in Harvard Cryo-EM Center for Structural Biology, Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology. This is an annually appointed academic role hosted by Harvard Medical School with responsibilities split between Harvard Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS) and Harvard Medical School. The position advances discovery in structural biology by providing support and training for researchers seeking to learn cryo-EM and serves as an interface between instruments and the scientific community.

Location:

based at both Boston and Cambridge Harvard campuses. Visa types and funding may limit work location; sponsors must be met prior to employment.

• Microscope Operation and Training:
  Serve as a technical interface between users and the Talos Arctica, Glacios 2 and Titan Krios microscopes by loading samples and checking microscope alignments. Independently schedule and train users to operate TEM microscopes, including sample preparation (negative stain and cryo-plunging), grid loading, sample screening, and data collection.
• Research Advisement and
  
  Collaboration:
  
  Independently advise researchers on experimental strategy. When appropriate, collaborate to assist in data acquisition, analysis, and structure determination.
• Facility Management:
  Coordinate with HCBI and HCCSB staff in purchasing, receiving, tracking, and stocking consumables and supplies. Arrange for equipment repair, maintenance and certification for the Cryo-EM imaging core and Harvard Cryo-EM Center for Structural Biology, interfacing with vendors or Facilities as needed. Collaborate with staff and scientists in benchmarking and maintenance of microscopes and ancillary equipment.
• Fee for Service Work:
  Perform staff-assisted screening to accelerate discovery. Data collection setup for Industrial users as needed.
• Community, Education & Standards:
  Contribute to the educational mission through lectures and workshops. Regularly engage with facility users to promote scientific progress and skill mastery. Contribute to the development of best practices and procedures.

With this appointment, you are represented by the Harvard Academic Workers (HAW) – UAW for purposes of collective bargaining and matters affecting compensation and working conditions.

• Ph.D. in structural biology, biochemistry, biophysics or related fields, with a focus on structural biology
• 2 or more years of hands-on experience in Cryo-EM or Cryo-ET workflows and analysis

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex concepts clearly in a fast-paced environment
• Experience performing single-particle cryo-EM sample prep and vitrification
• Experience operating cryo-EM microscopes with Autoloader systems (Glacios, Talos Arctica or Titan Krios)
• Experience with Cryo-EM data processing
• Experience with biochemical optimization for cryo-EM projects
• Experience with molecular model building into cryo-EM maps
• Detail-oriented with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• A passion for scientific discovery
• Excellent interpersonal skills with a service mindset

Please indicate in your cover letter if you have any of these additional skills:

• Experience with high-pressure freezing
• Experience with freeze substitution
• Experience with cryo-ET sample prep (including FIB), imaging and data processing
• Experience with Micro-ED
• Experience with light microscopy

• Required documents:
  Names and contact information for three people who have agreed to serve as references (Upload as “Note” document type)
• Applications submitted through the ARIeS portal. Rolling consideration; selected candidates will be invited for in-person interviews.

• Start date:
  
  The position is expected to start as soon as possible.
• Duration:
  One-year term from date of hire, with the possibility of extension based on performance, business need, and continued funding.

Stephen Harrison / Richard Walsh
Seeley G. Mudd 130
250 Longwood Ave. Boston, MA 02115

Contact Email: vard.edu

Salary Range: $80,000 - $105,000, commensurate with experience

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world. Our equal employment opportunity policy prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law.