Staff Scientist, Research Core

Overview

The Chemical and Biophysical Instrumentation Center (CBIC) at Yale University seeks a Staff Scientist to support the operation and maintenance of a diverse portfolio of shared scientific instrumentation, including systems for X-ray crystallography, NMR spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry. This position plays a critical role in ensuring continuity of operations across multiple facilities by providing hands-on technical, mechanical, and computing support for scientific instruments and related instrumentation infrastructure.

The Staff Scientist focuses on infrastructure support, preventative maintenance, and instrument reliability, working closely with other CBIC staff to minimize downtime and ensure high-quality service for CBIC users. Responsibilities include assisting CBIC staff with diagnosing and resolving instrument-related computing, mechanical, and electrical issues; performing routine maintenance and minor repairs; supporting cryogenic, compressed gas, and vacuum systems; and coordinating with vendors when specialized service or repair is required.

As part of these responsibilities, the Staff Scientist may periodically operate or assist in operating instruments for testing, verification, troubleshooting, routine performance checks, or other operational needs. While prior experience operating scientific instruments is beneficial, it is not required; however, the successful candidate must be willing to learn core facility workflows and acquire working familiarity with instrument operation under the guidance of CBIC staff.

Duties also include managing laboratory supplies and spare parts, maintaining adequate stock levels, and ordering parts and consumables as needed. The Staff Scientist will uphold laboratory safety protocols and contribute to safe and compliant laboratory operations. In addition, the Staff Scientist will assist with instrument computing and data systems support (including workstation oversight, data storage workflows, and system connectivity), and may contribute to operational documentation, training materials, internal reports, and presentations to support the CBIC’s research and training missions.

Required Skills and Abilities

1. Mechanical and electronic aptitude relevant to maintenance and repair of scientific instruments and support infrastructure.
2. Computer skills for instrument operation, testing, and data archiving.
3. Ability to be detail-oriented with excellent communication, organizational and record-keeping skills.
4. Ability to work independently or in coordination with others, following established protocols, diagnosing problems methodically, and implementing practical, reliable solutions.
5. Ability and willingness to learn to oversee, maintain, and repair new instruments and systems through hands-on training

Preferred Skills and Abilities

1. Experience with maintenance and repair of scientific instrumentation, electromechanical systems, vacuum systems, pumps, compressors, and/or cryogenic infrastructure.
2. Familiarity with cryogen handling and laboratory safety.
3. Basic scripting (e.g. shell scripts, Python) and computer systems administration experience, including familiarity with Linux and Windows operating systems.
4. Prior experience as a field-service engineer or instrumentation technician.

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.