Technical Assistant II (Electron Microscopy Core Facility Technician)

Apply now (https://secure.dc4.pageuppeople.com/apply/822/gateway/default.aspx?c=apply&lJobID=522949&lJobSourceTypeID=801&sLanguage=en-us) Job no: 522949

Work type: Staff Full Time

Location: UMass Amherst

Department:Core Facilities

Union:USA/MTA

Categories: Laboratory & Research, Technical

About UMass Amherst

UMass Amherst, the Commonwealth's flagship campus, is a nationally ranked public research university offering a full range of undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees. The University sits on nearly 1,450-acres in the scenic Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts, and offers a rich cultural environment in a bucolic setting close to major urban centers. In addition, the University is part of the Five Colleges (including Amherst College, Hampshire College, Mount Holyoke College, and Smith College), which adds to the intellectual energy of the region

Job Summary

The Technician II - Electron Microscopy Core Facility Technician at theInstitute for Applied Life Sciences (IALS) (https://www.umass.edu/ials/) at UMass Amherst assists in the day-to-day operations of theElectron Microscopy Core Facility (https://www.umass.edu/ials/electron-microscopy) .

Essential Functions

• Biological sample preparation for life sciences or bioengineering or related fields in collaboration with UMass Amherst Faculty and UMass Partners. This includes standard sample preparation methods such as (a) fixation/dehydration/embedding and ultramicrotomy (b) negative staining and (c) cryo sample preparation via plunge freezing.

• Prepare Soft Materials (polymer) samples via room temperature and cryo-ultramicrotomy. Perform and support related staining procedures.

• Develop methods and standard operating procedures.

• Perform routine preventative maintenance and quality control testing of sample preparation equipment.

• Troubleshoot and perform day-to-day work on laboratory equipment in the EM core to keep in best possible order. Help with general upkeep and maintenance of the Electron Microscopy Core Facility.

• Maintain literature awareness on EM instrument technology and best practices.

• Maintain logs of service requests and utilization.

• Prepare monthly utilization reports and coordinators with central administration for billing.

• Provide formal and on-demand training and/or assistance in proper use of EM instruments and in the use of analysis software as needed.

• Train users on equipment; participate in class offerings.

• Train and supervise students for above sample preparation techniques and electron microscopy operation and other duties as assigned.

• Manage sample preparation space and equipment to maintain proper working conditions.

• Ensure University E&HS procedures are followed.

• Prepare reports and/or papers on completed work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience, Certifications, Licensure)

• Four (4) years of experience in Transmission Electron Microscopy and Ultramicrotomy.

• An associate's degree or higher in Biology, Chemistry or other science-related field may substitute the required experience.

• Knowledge of basic biochemical and biophysical approaches.

• Experience in general laboratory practices including making solutions, organizing materials, ordering supplies, waste disposal and biohazard safety.

• Strong computer and record keeping skills for maintaining up to date facility database and laboratory notebook.

• Ability to prioritize, to work independently and be flexible and work well with various staff such as core directors, researchers, and external collaborators.

• Excellent interpersonal skills, including effective oral and written communication skills.

• General computer skills (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Photoshop, ImageJ).

• Manual dexterity and laboratory skills consistent with the work being performed.

• Ability to lift 30 pounds.

• Able to deal with gas and liquid nitrogen tanks.

Physical Demands/Working Conditions

Ability to balance, carry, push/pull, stand, bend, climb, reach, sit, twist and lift. Typical lab environment.

Work Schedule

• Monday-Friday; 8:30am to 5:00pm.

• Occasional evening and weekend work due to the nature of the position.

Salary Information

USA/MTA salary grade 14.

Special instructions to applicants

Along with the application, please submit a resume. References will be checked at the finalist stage. Please be prepared to provide contact information for three (3) professional references.

UMass Amherst is committed to a policy of equal opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, age, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, disability, military status, or genetic information in employment, admission to and participation in academic programs, activities, and services, and the selection of vendors who provide services or products to the University. To fulfill that policy, UMass Amherst is further committed to a program of affirmative action to eliminate or mitigate artificial barriers and to increase opportunities for the recruitment and advancement of qualified minorities, women, persons with disabilities, and covered veterans. It is the policy of the UMass Amherst to comply with the applicable federal and state statutes, rules, and regulations concerning equal opportunity and affirmative action.

Advertised: Apr 24 2024 Eastern Daylight Time

Applications close: Jul 24 2024 Eastern Daylight Time