Cryo-electron Microscopy Support Specialist
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Cryo-electron Microscopy Support Specialist to join the Bioimaging Platform at the John Innes Centre.
About the Bioimaging Platform
This position will be based within the Bioimaging Platform, which caters to the light and electron microscopy needs of the research groups at the John Innes Centre (JIC) in Norwich. JIC is a globally recognized, independent research institute specializing in plant and microbial sciences. We provide extensive microscopy services, training, and technical support to JIC scientists, and also collaborate on imaging projects across the wider Norwich Research Park.
The Bioimaging Platform is well-equipped, featuring a field-emission transmission electron microscope (TEM) and two field-emission scanning electron microscopes (SEM) with cryo-systems, including one with a 3View system for serial block-face SEM. Additionally, the platform houses a comprehensive array of specimen preparation equipment for electron microscopy, several confocal microscopes, super-resolution systems, and various other light microscopes and sample preparation tools for light microscopy.
The role
We are seeking an enthusiastic and motivated Cryo-Electron Microscopy Support Specialist to join our Bioimaging Platform at a world-leading institute in a full-time, indefinite post. They will be the primary staff member supporting the transmission electron microscope (TEM) within the platform and will also be expected to support other electron microscopes and techniques as needed.
The John Innes Centre Bioimaging Platform houses a comprehensive suite of electron and light microscopes, along with associated preparation equipment. This includes three electron microscopes with cryo capabilities: an FEI Talos F200C TEM, FEI NanoSEM 450 SEM, and a Zeiss Gemini 300 SEM.
The TEM is equipped with three detectors—Thermo Fisher Falcon 4i, Ceta-D, and a Gatan OneView—supporting a full range of techniques. The majority of work carried out on the TEM involves resin-embedded tissues and cells, or particles being screened with negative staining before single particle analysis using cryo techniques. While the primary focus will be on TEM, applicants should expect to engage with other electron microscopy techniques, including SEM, as part of their role. Familiarity with these additional methods will be highly beneficial.
The ideal candidate
The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with transmission electron microscopes and a broad range of biological sample preparation techniques for electron microscopy. Knowledge and proficiency in cryo-TEM is highly desirable; as is hands-on experience with a range of electron microscopy techniques, including but not limited to TEM, and be open to supporting various projects involving SEM and other approaches. Experience in the downstream analysis and processing of cryo-TEM images would be welcomed.
Excellent communication skills are essential, as is the ability to collaborate with researchers across various projects, understanding their needs and translating them into effective solutions using a broad range of electron microscopy techniques, including TEM and SEM.
While experience in equipment support and maintenance is desirable, the platform provides full training across all electron microscopes and preparation techniques, ensuring you’ll be equipped to handle a variety of tasks. Additionally, experience in training staff and students in technical methods is highly valued.
Additional information
Further information and details on how to apply can be found here or by contacting the Human Resources team on 01603 450814 or nbi.recruitment@nbi.ac.uk quoting reference 1004774. This role meets the criteria for a visa application, and we encourage all qualified candidates to apply. Please contact the Human Resources Team if you have any questions regarding your application or visa options.
We are an equal opportunities employer, actively supporting inclusivity and diversity. As a Disability Confident organisation, we guarantee to offer an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for this vacancy. We are proud to hold a prestigious Gold Athena SWAN award in recognition of our inclusive culture, commitment and good practices towards advancing of gender equality. We offer an exciting, stimulating, diverse research environment and actively promote a family friendly workplace. The Institute is also a member of Stonewall’s Diversity Champions programme.
The John Innes Centre is a registered charity (No. 223852) grant-aided by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council.
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