Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cryo-FIB/SEM Staff Scientist, CryoEM Facility

Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Master's or Ph.D. in biochemistry, structural biology, biophysics, or similar fields.
  • Hands-on expertise in cryo-FIB milling technology and SEM.
  • Strong understanding of cryogenic sample preparation methods for cellular and tissue analysis.
  • Exceptional troubleshooting and organizational skills.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and a commitment to collaborative problem-solving.

Responsibilities

  • Act as the primary expert for HydraBio plasma FIB/SEM operations.
  • Provide hands-on training and consultation on experimental design.
  • Lead the development of advanced cryo-FIB/ET methods, including lift-out and targeted milling.
  • Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals and contribute to collaborative projects.
  • Oversee routine instrument maintenance, calibrations, and lab infrastructure management.
  • Conduct facility tours and organize community engagement workshops.

Benefits

  • Access to cutting-edge technology and research facilities.
  • Opportunities for professional development and training.
  • Collaborative environment with a diverse scientific community.
  • Contributions to innovative research with potential for publication.
Full Job Description
The MIT Department of Biology seeks a collaborative and highly motivated Cryo-FIB/SEM Staff Scientist to join the CryoEM Facility at MIT.nano. This role is uniquely dedicated to spearheading the adoption of next-generation plasma FIB milling and in situ structural biology at MIT, acting as the primary lead for our newly installed HydraBio plasma FIB/SEM. While the CryoEM Facility supports a wide range of structural biology techniques, this position is focused primarily on advancing our cellular and tissue imaging capabilities. You will lead workflows utilizing fluorescence-guided targeting via the integrated Delmic METEOR microscope, high-precision milling, and sample lift-out. The successful candidate will blend hands-on HydraBio operation, scientific collaboration, and independent method development to shape the future of high-resolution cryo-ET and volume EM research in the Cambridge/Boston area. Serves as the primary HydraBio plasma FIB/SEM expert. Provide hands-on training, experimental design consultation, and active troubleshooting for cryo-ET and volume EM workflows. Spearheads advanced cryo-FIB/ET methods (e.g., lift-out, targeted milling) and publish innovative findings in peer-reviewed journals. Partners on projects to deliver expert sample prep, milling, tomography, and preliminary data processing/reconstruction. Performs routine instrument calibrations, coordinate vendor servicing, and oversee lab infrastructure (LN2, data storage). Leads facility tours, workshops, and contribute to scientific community engagement. Must have independent authorization to work in the US. Visa sponsorship is not available. View the full job description here: https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:US:4001a239-70bd-4d68-837c-15d86f680ace Job Requirements • Master's or Ph.D. in biochemistry, structural biology, biophysics, or a closely related discipline. • Demonstrated hands-on expertise in cryo-FIB milling technology and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). • Strong foundation in cryogenic sample preparation methods for cells or tissues. • Exceptional troubleshooting, organizational, and interpersonal skills. • A strong commitment to collaborative problem-solving and mentoring a diverse scientific community. • Please note: Single Particle Analysis (SPA) experience is not required for this role. Preferred: • 4+ years of hands-on research experience in biological electron microscopy. • Experience with transmission electron microscopy (TEM), particularly with cryo-ET data collection setup on a Titan Krios. • Background in volume EM, sample lift-out techniques, or cryo-ET data processing workflows, including sub-tomogram averaging (STA). • Experience diagnosing and resolving FIB/SEM hardware or performance issues. • Prior experience supporting users in a shared research facility.

About Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is a private research university located in Cambridge, Massachusetts. MIT is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU) and is classified among "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity". The university is known for its strong emphasis on scientific and technological research and its engineering programs. MIT was founded in 1861 and has a long history of innovation and entrepreneurship. The university has produced numerous Nobel laureates, Rhodes Scholars, and MacArthur Fellows.
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