LMS 2546 Microscopist

Overall Purpose:

Advanced light microscopical techniques are invaluable tools to study many biological problems. Research in the MRC Laboratory of Medical Sciences covers a wide range of topics from the subcellular localization of proteins to studying the development of entire organisms and is supported by a well-equipped and expanding light microscopy facility which comprises several confocal microscopes, super-resolution instruments for SIM, STORM and STED, a light-sheet setups as well as a variety of widefield fluorescence microscopes including a slide scanner and a laser-microdissection platform.

The post-holder will provide user training on the different microscope systems and technical support on all aspects of optical imaging. This will also involve participation in research projects.

Working Relationships:

The post-holder will report to the Head of the Microscopy facility, Dr Dirk Dormann, and collaborate with other facility staff.  Due to the training and support role, the post-holder will interact with a large number of facility users. The post holder will liaise with external companies and engineers to arrange system service and repair.

Main duties / key responsibilities

• Training users on facility microscope systems, this involves teaching the correct and safe use of light microscopes and the associated hard-and software
• Supporting and advising facility users on experimental design and imaging techniques
• Troubleshooting of microscope and imaging problems reported by users
• Ensure optimum performance of the instruments, carry out routine maintenance of the imaging systems; arrange service and repair of equipment as well as data management and backup
• Collaborating with LMS groups on specific research projects involving microscopic imaging and assisting with image processing/analysis

Education / Qualifications / Training required (will be assessed from application form):Essential:

• Science degree in relevant area or equivalent relevant experience

Previous work experience required (will be assessed from application form and at interview):Essential:

• Proven research experience using fluorescence imaging techniques including confocal microscopy

Desirable:

• Familiarity with Leica confocal microscopes

Application Area Specific Skills (will be assessed from application form and at interview):Essential:

• Sound understanding of light microscopical principles and techniques
• A good understanding of all aspects of digital imaging from acquisition to image processing and analysis (hard-and software)
• Experience in relevant software packages for microscopic imaging, image processing and visualisation

Computer Skills (will be assessed from application form and at interview):Essential:

• Advanced computer skills on different platforms (PC/Apple)

Desirable:

• Experience in computer programming for image analysis (for example ImageJ macro scripting or Python)

Communication Skills (will be assessed from application form and at interview):Essential:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills to interact effectively with facility users

Desirable:

• Previous experience of supporting and training others scientists in microscopy and imaging

Personal skills/behaviours/qualities (will be assessed at the interview):

• Motivated and enthusiastic individual who enjoys the interaction with a large number of facility users
• Interested in learning and applying new imaging techniques
• Ability to work cooperatively in a small team as well as independently

Further Information

Please upload your CV, names and contacts of two references along with a covering letter describing how you fit the person specifications and your motivation for the post. Please quote reference number LMS 2546.