Biotron Technical Specialist (Electron Microscopy) at Western University

About Western

With an international reputation for success, Western ranks as one of Canada's top research-intensive universities. Our research excellence expands knowledge and drives discovery with real-world application. Western also provides an exceptional employment experience, offering competitive salaries, a wide range of employment opportunities and one of Canada's most beautiful campuses.

About Us

To support Western’s initiative of providing the best student experience in a research intensive university, the Biotron provides expert research support and services to the Western Community, in particular that of the Faculty of Science. Excellence in research services includes providing access to various environmental environments, microscopy and image analysis, and environmental analysis to the Western community as well as local, national and international research and industry.

Responsibilities

The Technical Specialist (Electron Microscopy) will apply their expertise and knowledge to provide clients, researchers and students with the necessary training, consultation, and resources to achieve their scientific and educational goals. The incumbent will be responsible for assessing the research and training needs for incoming electron microscopy (EM) projects through consultation with the clients. Advises trainees on EM methods, tasks, supplies, instruments and resources required to achieve project goals. Prepares protocols for new EM project clients based on their particular objectives and source material. Delivers "high-quality research results" by way of proper lab procedures and techniques to clients. The incumbent also provides training and assistance to new and novice users of EM microscopy equipment while maintaining and onitoring practices and procedures in conjunction with the unit's Standard Operating Procedures.

NOTE: This position is expected to be filled internally by reapppointment.

Qualifications
Education:

• Undergraduate Degree in a relevant discipline required.

• Post-graduate degree or certification in cell biology discipline preferred, or equivalent experience.

Experience:

• 2 years' working experience in a related academic research environment using a broad range of advanced imaging and microscopy techniques.

• Expert level experience in preparation of all forms of samples for transmission electron microscopy

Skills, Abilities & Expertise:

• Familiarity with University research policies and practices
• Knowledge of Occupational Health and Safety Act
• Ability to collaborate across internal and external boundaries to meet common objectives, improve outcomes and support work beyond one's own unit
• Communication skills to describe technical concepts effectively to both novice and sophisticated users
• Ability to write clear, concise, and accurate procedural documentation
• Intermediate computer skills in Microsoft Office Suite and other applications or equipment used to support the laboratory or research project
• Ability to provide solutions and ideas for improvement by using imaginative approaches where constructive thinking and innovation are required
• Detail-oriented with an ability to function and process information with high levels of accuracy
• Ability to multi-task and maintain an organized and effective personal work environment
• Ability to work in a fluid and evolving work environment with changing deadlines and priorities
• Ability to work independently and maintain direction and focus through proactive planning and organized approaches to work
• Results-oriented with the ability to motivate and coach others to meet high performance standards
• Proven ability and natural inclination to develop relationships by interacting with people in a professional, respectful and diplomatic manner
• Ability to adhere to legislated safety requirements and Western safety policies
• Ability to work independently and effectively as a member of the team to achieve department goals
• Demonstrated ability to research/investigate issues and resolve problems
• Broad and extensive knowledge of both the specimen preparation and operation of complex analytical equipment, particularly transmission electron microscopy. Working knowledge of other microscopes and techniques would also be beneficial (i.e., light microscopy, confocal microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron, microscopy,image analysis systems, optics and filters, etc.).
• A strong background in cell biology (Immunohistochem, Bio lab research experience) is necessary to interpret results and make recommendations on troubleshooting problems with research samples.

Why Western?

Western offers a broad and exciting variety of part-time and temporary employment opportunities with ample room for job exploration and growth. Within our beautiful campus, you are part of a progressive work environment that promotes work/life balance including access to our state-of-the-art recreation centre. Apply for an opportunity to be part of the Western community and contribute to its success!

Applying at Western

To ensure that your application is given full consideration, please complete all relevant sections of the application. In addition, you can choose to supplement your application with a cover letter and current resume.

Consideration of applicants will include an assessment of previous performance, experience, and qualifications. Applicants should have oral communication skills in English.

Western Values Diversity

The University invites applications from all qualified individuals. Western is committed to employment equity and diversity in the workplace and welcomes applications from women, members of racialized groups/visible minorities, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation, and persons of any gender identity or gender expression.

Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. If you require accommodations for interviews or other meetings, please contact Human Resources or phone 519-661-2194.

Please Note:

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those chosen for an interview will be contacted.