"Staff Scientist II, Research CORES (ACEM)"

Overview

The Staff Scientist engages with the Yale research community to support cutting-edge research in the Aberration-Corrected Electron Microscopy (ACEM) Core. ACEM is a Research Core providing advanced instrumentation and technical expertise in electron microscopy and related techniques. The Core houses an advanced transmission electron microscope (TEM), dual-beam focused ion beam - scanning electron microscope (FIB-SEM), and sample preparation equipment. The Staff Scientist will lead sample preparation efforts in the ACEM Core with primary responsibility for the FIB-SEM, providing instrument maintenance, user training, workflow development, project consulting and other tasks as needed in the Core. In addition to strong expertise in FIB, the successful candidate will have experience in TEM sample preparation, TEM operation, image processing and hands-on tool maintenance and troubleshooting. In addition, they should possess a strong interest in technical instruction and customer engagement with a passion for supporting the next generation of researchers and their research. The Staff Scientist will assist with Core operational management and administrative tasks, interface with internal and external stakeholders to maintain safe, efficient and effective Core operations and support core strategic planning efforts. This position requires a strong background in physical sciences and engineering with significant hands-on experience supporting complex materials characterization projects.

Dept/Section URL
https://research.yale.edu/cores/acem

Required Skills and Abilities

1. Broad knowledge and hands-on training of design, theory and operation of focused ion beam (FIB) systems, including skill and experience in their operation. Capacity to deliver TEM sample preparation, atom probe tomography (APT) sample preparation, create patterning using SEM/Ga column. Skills to operate TEM microscope to check and screen samples.
2. Mechanical and electronic skills relevant to maintenance, repair, and modification of scientific instruments. Experience with materials science experimental design and implementation. Computer skills for instrument operation and data analysis including familiarity with image analysis software such as Fiji/ImageJ, python.
3. Familiar with general materials characterization and sample preparation tools such as XRD, TEM, AFM, mechanical polishing, carbon/metal coating/deposition, optical microscope, ion milling, vacuum systems/pump etc.
4. Proven ability to work effectively and collaborate with a diverse team to troubleshoot and solve problems in the support and instruction of students, post-doctoral fellows and other researchers.
5. Strong interpersonal and written and verbal communication skills and ability to effectively train users and staff on proper procedures and methods for using advanced microscopy systems as well as processing and interpreting resulting imaging data.

Preferred Education, Experience and Skills

A Master’s or Doctorate Degree with a focus on electron microscopy and sample preparation is preferred. Experience with other materials characterization techniques such as X-ray diffraction, SEM, TEM, Raman and AFM is desired.

Principal Responsibilities

1. User Training: Provide advanced training and guidance to users of the research core.
2. Experiment Support: Collaborate with researchers on experimental design, execution, data analysis, and troubleshooting within the research core.
3. Facility/Instrument Support: Manage and oversee research projects within the research core.
4. Technique Development: Lead the implementation and optimization of advanced techniques and methodologies and develop standard operating procedures for research core services.
5. Data Analysis/Interpretation: Analyze and interpret complex scientific data, generating meaningful insights and recommendations.
6. Equipment Procurement: Assist in the selection, acquisition, and maintenance of research core equipment.
7. Professional Development: Stay updated with emerging research trends and technologies. Participate in professional development activities and scientific conferences.
8. Scientific Participation: Contribute scientific data for manuscript preparation and grant proposals
9. Staff Training and Mentoring: Contribute to the training and mentoring of junior staff members.
10. Vendor Relations: Manage vendor relationships, negotiates contracts, and evaluates new technologies for optimal procurement processes.
11. Education and Outreach: Contribute to education and outreach activities within the core, including tours, events, etc.

Required Education and Experience

Bachelor’s degree in a related discipline and four years of related experience or an equivalent combination of skills, education, and experience.

Salary Range
$68,000.00 - $120,500.00

Location
900 West Campus Drive, West Haven, Connecticut