Cryo-FIB/SEM Staff Scientist, CryoEM Facility

MIT • Cambridge, MA

7d • Onsite

About The Position

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.

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.
• Must have independent authorization to work in the US. Visa sponsorship is not available.

Nice To Haves

• 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.

Responsibilities

• 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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior