Cryo-Electron Microscopy Scientist @ Iowa State University

Biology & Biotech (5)
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Position Title:

Cryo-Electron Microscopy Scientist

Job Group:

Professional & Scientific

Required Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree and 5 years of related experience

Preferred Qualifications:

Background in Structural Biology or Electrical/Mechanical Engineering
Experience with Cryo-EM data collection and analysis, preferably using Thermo-Fisher cryo-electron microscopes and Gatan cameras, automated data collection using SerialEM, microscope alignment and routine maintenance
Expertise in Cryo-EM sample preparation, especially grid preparation including autogrid clipping and loading into the cassette/autoloader
Expertise in single-particle data analysis, specifically in use of typical Cryo-EM software (e.g. RELION, cryoSparc etc.)

Job Description:

Are you energized by the idea of being a key contributor to groundbreaking research at a major university? Do you thrive in a dynamic environment where you're constantly adapting protocols and solving new challenges?

If so, The Office of Biotechnology at Iowa State University is seeking a Cryo-Electron Microscopy Scientist to join the team! This is a unique opportunity to direct a state-of-the-art core facility supporting high-impact research in structural biology, molecular biology, and interdisciplinary science. The Cryo-EM facility plays a central role in advancing Iowa State’s research and education mission and contributes to strategic initiatives across campus and beyond. This position will be classified as a Research Scientist III.

What You'll Do:

In this role, you will be the primary scientific and technical lead overseeing the operation, maintenance, and user training associated with our Thermo Fisher Glacios microscope, Gatan K3 detector, and Thermo Fisher Vitrobot. The candidate will work independently to manage the instrumentation and is responsible for microscope alignment and sample loading. They will develop a workflow for the facility, including grid preparation, data collection, and analysis. The candidate will also be responsible for training users in grid preparation, data collection and analysis, including single-particle Cryo-EM software.

In this senior-level role, the candidate will contribute to Iowa State’s thriving research environment by collaborating with faculty, mentoring students and visiting scientists, and offering expert consultation on project design and data interpretation for on-campus and off-campus clients. They will also have the opportunity to participate in grant proposals, co-author publications, and develop and lead workshops and training sessions in Cryo-EM.

Key Responsibilities:

Operate, maintain, and align Cryo-EM instrumentation; coordinate service visits and troubleshoot technical issues
Develop and optimize workflows for sample preparation, data collection, and single-particle analysis
Provide one-on-one training and group instruction for users on Cryo-EM techniques and software
Manage facility operations including budgeting, scheduling, billing, and rate structure development
Engage in collaborative research; contribute to grant proposals, publications, and report
Organize and teach Cryo-EM courses and workshops; mentor undergraduate and graduate researchers

The successful candidate for this role will be detail-oriented, self-motivated, and eager to advance structural biology research. They will have excellent organizational and project management skills along with strong communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with a broad range of users and collaborators. This individual will also have a willingness to learn and adapt to evolving technologies.

This is a three year, fixed term position with the opportunity for renewal.

Why Join Us?
At Iowa State, you’ll be part of a collegial and research-focused community. This position offers the chance to oversee direction of a premier facility, work at the forefront of structural biology, and shape the future of Cryo-EM training and research support on campus.

This posting will be open until filled. However, to receive full consideration, applications need to be submitted by July 27th, 2025.

Level Guidelines
• Senior-level position possessing high-level professional and/or technical skills working independently under minimal supervision to support ISU’s mission and department or work unit goals
• Applies senior-level professional knowledge and expertise to work requiring greater latitude
• Solves moderately complex problems and regularly exercises judgment to determine appropriate action
• Regularly exercises judgment to resolve problems and determine appropriate action on a broad set of issue and problems. May provide recommendations regarding problems/issues outside the bounds of defined procedures and practices
• Responds to complicated inquiries, provides training, and provides direction to lower-level staff
• May provide supervision for one to two other staff (i.e., leads a small work team)
• May lead projects for which well-defined practices and procedures may not exist
• Provides guidance to students

Appointment Type:

Regular with Term Appointment (Fixed Term)

Proposed End Date or Length of Term:

September 1, 2028

Number of Months Employed Per Year:

12 Month Work Period

Time Type:

Full time

Pay Grade:

PS810

Application Instructions:

To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:

1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae
2) Letter of Application/Cover Letter

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email [email protected] or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.

Why Choose ISU?

Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as:
• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program