"Cryo-EM Core Facility Specialist"

Cryo-EM Core Facility Specialist

Job Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented individual to help operate and support our cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) core facility. The facility houses a ThermoFisher Titan Krios, a ThermoFisher Aquilos cryo-FIB, two JEOL JEM1400-Plus, with a ThermoFisher Glacios microscope scheduled to arrive shortly. The successful candidate will be responsible for assisting researchers in the preparation of cryo-EM specimens and in the collection and processing of cryo-EM data, as well as maintaining these microscopes and associated equipment to ensure optimal performance. The candidate will also assist with experiments involving negatively stained specimens. The candidate will likely have opportunities to participate in technical developments, other techniques, and in research projects resulting in publication in scientific journals.

Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities

• Operate, monitor, and maintain cryo-EM instruments, including the Titan Krios, Aquilos cryo-FIB, 1400, and Glacios (upon installation).
• Support users in cryo-EM workflows, including grid screening, high-resolution data collection, tomography, and related imaging tasks.
• Support users in projects where only negatively stained specimens may be imaged and the images analyzed.
• Assist with training and onboarding new users on cryo-EM equipment and software.
• Perform routine instrument checks, coordinate service calls, and ensure minimal downtime.
• Manage scheduling and daily operations of the core facility, including occasional holiday and weekend support.
• Maintain detailed logs of instrument performance, usage, and experiments.
• Collaborate with faculty, staff, and trainees to advance structural biology and cell biology research projects.

Minimum Qualifications

(Not specified in detail)

Preferences

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in structural biology, biophysics, biochemistry, or a related field.
• Demonstrated expertise in single-particle cryo-EM analysis (sample preparation, data collection, and/or image processing).
• Familiarity with cryo-EM instrumentation and workflows; willingness to learn and train in cryo-electron tomography and cryo-FIB milling.
• Strong technical troubleshooting skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and record-keeping skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Willingness to work some holidays and weekends to support time-sensitive projects and instrument operations.

Special Instructions

Requisition Number: PRN43131B
Full Time or Part Time: Full Time
Work Schedule Summary:
Department: 00943 - HSC Core Resrch Facility Oper
Location: Campus
Pay Rate Range: 75,000 to 95,000
Close Date: 9/18/2026
Open Until Filled:

To apply, visit https://utah.peopleadmin.com/postings/189026