The Cleveland Clinic Florida Research and Innovation Center (FRIC) is seeking a motivated and skilled microscopist to manage and direct its Light Microscopy Core. This position requires advanced technical and scientific expertise in imaging acquisition and analysis, along with the ability to work collaboratively in a BSL-2/3 research facility. The Light Microscopy Core Director will report to the Director of Research Compliance and Operations.

Responsibilities:

• Manage the daily operations of the Core, including oversight of Core projects and infrastructure; the purchase, utilization, and upkeep of equipment; and hiring and managing of junior Core staff
• Train FRIC investigators in the proper use of microscopes and imaging equipment;  troubleshoot experimental and technical problems to help optimize techniques and improve understanding of biological questions
• Provide advice to clients on experimental design, protocols, and sample preparation
• Provide post-acquisition image processing and analysis and assist with interpretation of data
• Together with the Director of Research Compliance and Operations, establish and implement the Core’s business plan, policies, and procedures, while assessing needs and opportunities for improvement and innovation
• Maintain SOPs and quality control measures in order to monitor compliance of the Core, its Staff, and users with institutional and regulatory policies in a BSL-3 environment (e.g., biohazard material handling, IBC protocols, and IACUC protocols)
• Participate in grant and manuscript writing
• Help develop informational and educational materials to communicate information to Core users and help maintain the Core website
• Supervise Core accounting; manage billing; maintain and generate reports, records and statistics; provide budgetary analyses as requested by the Director of Research Compliance and Operations.

Work Experience:

• Demonstrated expertise in current and emerging imaging technologies, including widefield microscopy, confocal microscopy, fluorescent lifetime imaging, small animal imaging, and live cell imaging methods
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to teach and advise FRIC scientists as well as assist with manuscript and grant writing
• Strong and effective analytical, organizational, and communication skills
• Experience in a core research laboratory, preferred
• Previous experience with Leica microscopes, preferred
• Experience in a BSL2 setting is required, with BSL3 environment experience being highly desirable

Education:

• Ph.D. with at least three years of experience in an Imaging Core Facility is preferred for an appointment at a Director level. Candidates with MS and at least five years of experience or BS and at least ten years of experience are also encouraged to apply.

Personal Protective Equipment:

• This position requires candidates to obtain/maintain medical clearance through Cleveland Clinic’s Occupational Health Department to work in a Biosafety Level 3 Environment (BSL3).  Medical clearance including medical management is completed upon hire, transfer, and annually. This includes but is not limited to requirements for wearing respiratory protection.
• Follows standard precautions using personal protective equipment as required
• Ensures compliance and safety standards for BSL-2/3 environment

Other requirements

• Must achieve Department of Justice (DOJ) Security Risk Assessment (SRA) approval for working with select agents

Please send CV and cover letter to Sara Tavakoli (tavakos@ccf.org)