Technical Assistant II - Light Microscopy Imaging Specialist
The W.M. Keck Facility for Biological Imaging at Whitehead is excited to recruit a new member of our light microscopy team! The Technical Assistant will serve a critical role by maintaining equipment and supplies, providing training, and supporting researchers with instrument use and image analysis. This is a great opportunity for someone interested in light microscopes, teaching and core facility work within a fast-paced research environment. The Technical Assistant will perform all duties in accordance with Whitehead Institute's behavioral standards, mission, values, and vision.
The Keck Facility is a light microscopy core facility that provides state-of-the-art light microscopy equipment and expertise to enable the diverse and dynamic research at the Whitehead Institute, MIT and the surrounding biomedical research institutions. We house a range of turn-key instruments to assist with imaging a broad range of samples--from bacteria to brains, biochemistry to organoids and organs. In addition, we provide microscopy education opportunities for our research community.
Classification: Exempt, Full Time
Reports To: Microscopy Facility Manager
Characteristic Duties
Provide weekly and regular maintenance of equipment, thorough training to users (grad students, post docs, faculty research staff) in basic microscopy theory, the practical operation of equipment, fundamentals of image analysis, and facility policies.
Provide as-needed assistance to users.
Maintain records of use, training and equipment maintenance.
Ensure timely backup of essential data.
Maintain proper inventory and order supplies.
Work with Keck manager to perform as-needed equipment troubleshooting and maintenance and facilitate service and repair and assist in demos and facility tours as needed.
Help prepare, review and revise written training materials, policies and protocols.
Remain current with trends, equipment and software in the field through reading, attending seminars, trade shows and visits to other core facilities. May attend and participate in one related national professional conference on an annual basis.
Qualifications
BS or MS degree, or equivalent experience, in biological, chemical or physical sciences, engineering or a related discipline. PhD candidates are encouraged to apply.
Strong familiarity with at least one type of light microscopy.
2-7 years laboratory research experience with at least two of those years working with light microscopy.
Excellent interpersonal skills and the desire to work in a service-oriented environment.
Experience with training people on equipment or in a technique.
Strong computer and record keeping skills.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Comfortable with troubleshooting and problem solving.
Interest in teaching and collaboration.
Ability to exercise judgment within defined practices and techniques.
Flexibility and willingness to learn new technologies.
Ability to work independently under deadlines with minimal guidance while also working as a team member.
Ability to be on-time for scheduled appointments and adapt to unscheduled requests.
Image analysis and programming experience highly desired.
Experience with the configuration of optical systems and/or instrument automation highly desired.
Experience with Metamorph, Zeiss ZEN and Fiji/ImageJ software programs preferred.
Relocation bonus available
