Description
About the Role
Axle is looking for an experienced Electron Microscopy Specialist to join our team supporting research at NIAID’s Rocky Mountain Laboratories in Hamilton, Montana. In this role, you’ll work closely with scientists in a collaborative, fast-paced environment, helping generate high-quality imaging data that supports infectious disease research.
This is a hands-on position for someone who enjoys both the technical side of electron microscopy and the collaborative nature of working with different research groups. If you have strong immuno-EM experience and are excited about learning and applying newer approaches like CLEM, FIB-SEM, and cryo-EM, this could be a great fit.
What You’ll Do
- Prepare biological samples for electron microscopy (fixation, embedding, sectioning, staining) and perform imaging and analysis.
- Design and conduct immuno-electron microscopy (immuno-EM) experiments.
- Operate and help maintain TEM and/or SEM instruments, including troubleshooting when needed.
- Work closely with NIAID investigators to plan experiments, interpret results, and solve technical challenges.
- Help bring new capabilities online, including techniques like CLEM, FIB-SEM, and cryo-EM.
- Keep clear, well-organized records in line with NIH standards for rigor and reproducibility.
- Train and support other lab members or facility users in EM techniques.
- Contribute to the overall operation of the lab, including equipment upkeep and safety compliance.
Requirements
What We’re Looking For
- Degree in a relevant field (Cell Biology, Structural Biology, Biophysics, or similar).
- At least 5 years of relevant job experience in biological electron microscopy.
- Solid understanding of EM sample preparation and imaging workflows.
- Strong experience with immuno-electron microscopy.
- Experience operating and troubleshooting EM instruments.
- Someone who communicates well, works collaboratively, and is comfortable supporting multiple projects.
Nice to Have
- Experience working in a shared resource or core facility.
- Experience with, or strong interest in learning:
- Correlative Light and Electron Microscopy (CLEM)
- Focused Ion Beam-SEM (FIB-SEM)
- Cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM)
- Familiarity with image analysis tools.
What Makes Someone Successful in This Role
- You’re a team player who enjoys working with a range of scientists and projects.
- You’re curious and motivated to learn new techniques and technologies.
- You’re organized, detail-oriented, and take pride in producing high-quality data.
- You can balance multiple priorities without losing track of the details.
