Research Professional -Imaging Research - Department of Neuroscience

Job Information

• Job
• Location:
  
  Twin Cities
• Job Family:
  Research
• Full/Part Time:
  Full-Time
• Regular/Temporary:
  Regular
• Job Code: 8354NG
• Employee Class:
  Civil Service

The University Imaging Centers (UIC) is seeking a highly motivated, detail-oriented Spatialomics Lead Technician to join our team of specialized imaging professionals. As a core facility network serving internal and external researchers, the UIC operates across three campuses-Jackson Hall, Snyder Hall, and the Cancer and Cardiovascular Research Building. This role sits at the intersection of histology, advanced optical imaging, and genomics.

The position is a critical component of the UMN Spatialomics Initiative.

The primary responsibility of the Spatialomics Technician is to provide end-to-end laboratory services, validation, and advanced instrumentation operation for multi-omic spatial profiling platforms. Key equipment includes the Bruker/ Nano String Geo Mx DSP, Bruker/Nano String Cos Mx SMI and the Lunaphore COMET system. The successful candidate will work closely with the Spatialomics Biomedical Core, UMGC, MSI and diverse research clients to ensure high-quality spatial biology data generation.

45%

• Execute complex multiplexed immunohistochemistry (IHC), immunofluorescence (IF), and in situ hybridization protocols tailored to spatial genomics and proteomics assays.
• Collaborates with other researchers or teams to design experiments and studies that utilize spatial imaging techniques to address specific research questions.
• Validate customized tissues and tissue microarrays (TMAs).
• Handle and dilute chemical reagents, probe libraries, and multi-fluorophore antibody panels with strict adherence to quality control and aseptic techniques.

35%

• Operate, calibrate, and maintain high-end spatial biology platforms and multi-spectral slide scanners.
• Monitor sample runs on cutting-edge spatial transcriptomics and spatial proteomics systems, ensuring optimal operational parameters and troubleshooting technical system errors.
• Collaborate directly with vendor support teams and the UIC to ensure equipment functionality, routine biosafety compliance, and efficient data pipeline routing.
• Manage laboratory inventory, monitoring consumption of proprietary consumables, reagents, and slide kits.

20%

• Manage the intake and scheduling process for investigators submitting projects to the UMN Spatialomics Initiative.
• Serve as preceptor or technical resource, training advanced core users on basic slide preparation guidelines or equipment usage.
• Liaise with others to analyze results and draw conclusions based on the resulting data, contributing to scientific publications and presentations
• Ensures the accuracy and reliability of image data and analysis methods, implementing validation processes when necessary
• Will work as a team to optimize machine learning, pattern recognition, and data mining to analyze data
• May be responsible for maintaining hardware, software, and instrumentation, and/or using technology to create imaging SOPs for research

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Molecular Biology, Neuroscience, or a closely related scientific field plus at least five years of relevant experience, or a combination of education and relevant work experience to equal at least nine years.
• Minimum of 1-2 years of hands‑on experience in a wet lab research or core facility setting, specializing in modern histology, molecular or spatial biology.
• Demonstrated technical proficiency with antibody and/or RNAscope tissue staining and validation. Foundational imaging techniques (brightfield or fluorescence microscopy).
• Strong organizational, verbal, and written communication skills to…