Research Associate I, Electron Microscopy

The Cancer Research Technology Program (CRTP) develops and implements emerging technology, cancer biology expertise and research capabilities to accomplish NCI research objectives. The CRTP is an outward-facing, multi-disciplinary hub purposed to enable the external cancer research community. A major focus of the CRTP is the NCI RAS Initiative with the goal to discover new therapeutic interventions against RAS-driven cancers. In addition, the CRTP hosts the Nanotechnology Characterization Laboratory (NCL) which performs and standardizes preclinical efficacy and toxicity testing of nanoparticles intended for cancer therapeutics and diagnostics, and the Antibody Characterization Lab (ACL) which characterizes monoclonal antibodies or other renewable affinity binding reagents for use in cancer related research. CRTP scientists also work collaboratively with intramural NCI investigators to provide research technologies and expertise.

KEY ROLES/RESPONSIBILITIES

The Research Associate I will be involved in preparation of biological specimens, from proteins to cells, and imaging using transmission electron microscopy. The main methods of specimen preparation will include negative staining, plunge freezing for cryo-EM, and plastic embedding/sectioning. Imaging tasks will include screening and data collection for negatively stained and cryo-EM specimens as well as visualization of cell/tissue sections. The Research Associate I may also be involved in data analysis, such as particle selection and 2D classification. The laboratory has access to Hitachi 7600/7650, FEI T20, and ThermoFisher Talos F200C electron microscopes. While expertise in all the mentioned methods of sample preparation and data collection/analysis is not expected, a solid background in transmission electron microscopy and willingness to learn are important. Multiple projects and tasks will need to be handled simultaneously.

• Sample preparation for electron microscopy (negative staining, plastic embedding, vitrification for cryo-EM, other approaches as necessary)
• Operation of electron microscopes for imaging and data collection
• Analysis and presentation of electron-microscopy data

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in chemistry, biochemistry, or a related discipline
• A minimum of two (2) years related hands-on experience in one or all of the following: biological electron microscopy, biochemistry/biophysics, experimental aspects of protein science
• Ability to operate complex scientific instruments
• Ability to execute complicated, multi-step protocols and, when necessary, adapt them according to the specific task
• Ability to determine priorities and handle multiple projects simultaneously
• Ability to maintain accurate records
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Proficiency in the use of transmission electron microscopes
• Experience in preparation of proteins, virus-like particles, and other objects for electron microscopy imaging by negative staining and vitrification
• Experience in plastic embedding and sectioning of cells and tissues
• Experience with computational analysis of electron microscopy data

JOB HAZARDS

• This position is subject to working with radioactive material and requires to become an approved radiation worker

Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE) | Minority/Female/Disabled/Veteran (M/F/D/V) | Drug Free Workplace (DFW)

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