Research Specialist, Materials Science (FIB milling, EELS/sTEM) - Villa Lab

The Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) advances the discovery and sharing of scientific knowledge to benefit us all. As a biomedical research organization and philanthropy, HHMI supports a vibrant community of academic researchers, educators, students, and professionals. Together, we're unlocking the fundamentals of biology and building an open, inclusive future for science.

We are seeking a Research Specialist with expertise in materials science to join the lab of Dr. Elizabeth Villa at the University of California, San Diego. The Villa Lab wants to see inside cells at the highest possible resolution to understand the structural dynamics and interactions of macromolecular complexes. To do this, they develop tools and technologies to bridge live-cell imaging with cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET).They use these tools to explore fundamental or previously unexplored questions in cell biology. To learn more about the lab, visit https://villalab.ucsd.edu/

This is a rare opportunity to be a part of a dynamic and highly collaborative research team, with excellent benefits and the opportunity to be co-author on many exciting basic and translational papers. This role will allow you to collaborate closely with group members to develop new techniques and methods and push science in directions previously unthought of. This role will be a subject matter expert in the lab for working with FIB milling, EELS and STEM, and an integral part of the science conducted in the lab.

What we offer:

• A competitive compensation package with comprehensive health and wellness benefits.

• The opportunity to be part of the vibrant UCSD research community.

• Access to HHMI's on-demand training courses and interactive skill-building seminars taught by members of our learning and organization development team.

• A dynamic, supportive, and collaborative research environment exploring diverse and impactful scientific questions.

• The freedom and flexibility to design, lead, and drive innovative projects.

• Access to cutting-edge, high-end microscopy and state-of-the-art research facilities.

• Opportunities to expand knowledge of biological systems and apply materials science methodologies to solve critical biomedical challenges.

• A chance to be at the forefront of scientific discovery, pushing the boundaries of understanding.

• A friendly and inclusive lab culture with abundant resources and professional development opportunities.

• The ability to establish and cultivate interdisciplinary collaborations across campus.

What you'll do:

• Independently provide regular maintenance, calibrations, and oversight for microscopes within the lab, including dual beam, EELS and STEM instrumentation.

• Interact with technical support for the devices to perform preventative maintenance and address any technical issues that arise.

• Interact closely with lab members to plan and perform experiments at every stage from sample collection and preparation to data collection and analysis.

• Serve as the subject matter expert within the lab for complex microscopy techniques as well as instrumentation, and train other lab members on appropriate use and procedures.

• Communicate complex scientific concepts in a clear and accessible manner.

• Contribute to preparation of manuscripts, grants and scientific presentations.

• Serve as the liaison from the lab to the core microscopy facility within UCSD.

• Be readily available via Slack, email, and phone when operational questions arise from users or for emergencies in the facility.

• Participate in weekly laboratory meetings and planning sessions.

What you bring:

• Master's degree in Materials Science or related discipline; or equivalent combination of education and experience. A PhD is preferred.

• Prior experience working with Electron Energy Loss Spectroscopy (EELS) STEM and experience working with FIB milling is required.

• Experience with low-dose TEM and/or cryogenic EM (cryo-EM) would be a plus, but not required.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills to interact with colleagues and technical support.

• The ability to operate complex machinery with reliability and accuracy, with minimal supervision.

• Excellent organizational, communication and time management skills with attention to detail and able to handle multiple tasks or projects with competing deadlines.

• Candidate must be self-motivated, energetic, and able to work well in a diverse laboratory environment with people from a wide range of backgrounds and experience levels.

• Knowledge of computer and MS office software is required. Knowledge of Mac software and image analysis software would be a plus, but is not required.

Physical Requirements

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet). Work may involve possible exposure to malodorous vapors, contamination by toxic chemicals and acids and presence of carcinogenic substances.

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Please Note:

This job description sets forth the job's principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however. Unless they begin with the word "may," the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are "essential functions" of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act. #LI-NG1

Compensation and Benefits

Our employees are compensated from a total rewards perspective in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Visit our Benefits at HHMI site to learn more.

Compensation Range

Pay Type:

HHMI's salary structure is developed based on relevant job market data. HHMI considers a candidate's education, previous experiences, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal equity when making job offers. Typically, a new hire for this position in this location is compensated between the minimum and the midpoint of the salary range.

HHMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer