"Researcher 4, Microscopy and Imaging Core"

Posted: 21-Nov-25

Location: Houston, Texas

Type: Full-time

Categories: Research - Laboratory/Non-Laboratory, Staff/Administrative

Internal Number: 495235

Department: Pharmacological & Pharmaceutic

Salary: 65,300 - 80,000

Description: Provides expertise in support of research projects in engineering, biology, mathematics, statistics, computer science, physics, etc. Prepares and edits research papers, proposal, and reports. Performs advanced testing procedures and analyses of data. May prepare samples for testing. Performs advanced testing procedure and performs analyses of data. Makes uses of a variety of specialized equipment typical within area of specialization. May contribute to grant proposal development. Ensures experiments are performed according to specifications. May make recommendations to changes in procedure, processes, or experimental design. Possesses, understands, and applies an advanced knowledge of a professional natural, physical, or engineering field or multiple fields of specialization to develop unique and new approaches or ideas. Understands and uses research tools and equipment and utilizes effective management techniques. 1. Plans and conducts research in one or more large and complex areas of specialization. 2. Reviews progress of projects. May liaison with other areas of specialization to obtain support or technical expertise for projects. 3. Defines procedures or processes to be used in the experimental processes. 4. May personally conduct important and/or technically complex investigations. 5. Operates with considerable latitude for unreviewed action. 6. Reviews and evaluates the effectiveness of personnel. The University of Houston College of Pharmacy Core Laboratory seeks an Researcher 4 for our Microscopy and Imaging facility. This role offers the opportunity to work with advanced imaging technology while supporting research across diverse scientific disciplines. About the Role The Researcher 4 serves as the primary point of contact for imaging support, collaborating with undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral researchers. The role combines day-to-day facility oversight with long-term planning to enhance the Core’s imaging capacity and research impact. Key Responsibilities • Provide expert training on three confocal microscopes, histology equipment, and Imaris imaging software • Perform advanced image acquisition and processing for collaborative research projects • Troubleshoot technical issues and guide researchers in experimental design optimization • Oversee equipment maintenance schedules, supply inventory, and vendor service coordination • Develop and implement new imaging methods or analytical workflows to meet evolving research needs Required Qualifications • Education & Experience: o Minimum: Master’s degree in biomedical sciences, bioengineering, biophysics, computer science, or a related field, plus at least five years of research experience that includes microscopy and imaging analysis o Preferred: Ph.D. in a related discipline with at least two years of postdoctoral or equivalent research experience and a record of publications involving imaging work. • Technical Expertise: o Hands-on experience with confocal microscopy and cell biology techniques o Experience in sample preparation and use of scanning electron microscopy o Working knowledge of super-resolution methods (STED, STORM) o Proficiency in optical microscopy principles and multispectral imaging o Competence in histology sample preparation (embedding, sectioning, staining) o Image analysis and quantitative data interpretation skills • Professional Skills: o Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities o Strong organizational and project management capabilities o Customer service orientation with ability to support users of varying expertise levels Preferred Qualifications • Experience with MATLAB or similar platforms for image processing and analysis • Demonstrated ability to develop or adapt imaging protocols to advance research objectives Reporting Structure This position reports to the Director of Core Laboratories and Facilities and the Associate Dean of Research. MQ: Master's Degree with 5 years experience. All positions at the University of Houston-System are security sensitive and will require a criminal history check. The University of Houston System and its universities are Equal Opportunity Institutions. Everyone is encouraged to apply.