Research Specialist - Electron Microscopy Core West

Research Specialist - Electron Microscopy Core West

Hiring Department: OVCR Research Resources Center

Location:
Chicago, IL USA

Requisition : 1041176

Posting Close Date: 6/12/2026

Salary: The budgeted salary range for the position is $63,480 -$80,000. The final salary offered will be determined by a thorough assessment of available market data, internal salary equity, candidate experience and qualifications, and budget constraints.

About the University of Illinois Chicago

UIC is among the nation's preeminent urban public research universities, a Carnegie RU/VH research institution, and the largest university in Chicago. UIC serves over 34,000 students, comprising one of the most diverse student bodies in the nation and is designated as a Minority Serving Institution (MSI), an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institution (AANAPSI) and a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI).

Through its 16 colleges, UIC produces nationally and internationally recognized multidisciplinary academic programs in concert with civic, corporate and community partners worldwide, including a full complement of health sciences colleges. By emphasizing cutting-edge and transformational research along with a commitment to the success of all students, UIC embodies the dynamic, vibrant and engaged urban university. Recent "Best Colleges" rankings published by U.S. News & World Report, found UIC climbed up in its rankings among top public schools in the nation and among all national universities.

UIC has over 300,000 alumni, and is one of the largest employers in the city of Chicago.

This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.

The Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research (OVCR) is seeking to fill the role of Research Specialist in the Research Resources Center's Electron Microscopy Core West. The Electron Microscopy Core West (EMCW) supports the UIC research community and external users by providing safe, affordable, and efficient access to advanced electron microscopy and surface analysis technologies, including TEM, SEM, XPS, and Raman systems.

EMCW also offers 24/7 instrument access, expert training, technical guidance, educational support, and collaborative research opportunities to advance innovative scientific research and learning.
The Research Specialist will support advanced biological research through the operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of transmission and scanning electron microscopes (TEM/SEM). This role includes training researchers; preparing, imaging, and analyzing biological samples; advising on experimental design and image interpretation; and ensuring the safe, efficient operation of the EMCW. The Research Specialist will collaborate with investigators to develop, execute, and interpret research projects, while applying advanced laboratory methods and complex data collection and analysis techniques to support high-quality scientific outcomes.

Job Responsibilities:

• Operation of Electron Microscopes (Transmission and Scanning) and related ancillary equipment. Includes day-to-day operations, and trouble-shooting minor problems with the instruments.

• Train new users at different levels of expertise in using microscopes and related equipment and instruments.

• Modification of methods for non-routine types of samples encountered.

• Provide guidance in experimental design and produce image data as needed for good experimental outcome.

• Provide guidance in the interpretation of image data obtained.

• Provide EM services and/or instrument training for an overall positive outcome.

• Provide excellent communication and guidance to researchers of various level of academic/industrial backgrounds.

• Ensure chemicals and safety protocols and procedures are practiced in the EM core including proper chemical waste management/compliance with regular safety training.

• Provide cost estimates and routine monthly billing of EM services rendered.

• Responsible for ordering supplies as approved by the Director to maintain a smooth workflow for the core…