Sr. Research Specialist

Department Molecular Biology
Category Research and Laboratory
Job Type Full-Time

The Research Specialist in the Confocal Imaging Facility (CIF) laboratory in the Department of Molecular Biology at Princeton University assists the Director in all aspects of the day-to-day operations of the facility. The Confocal Imaging Facility provides support for Princeton University faculty and student research utilizing multiple imaging modalities and a total of 14 imaging systems. The CIF provides researchers with the ability to visualize a variety of samples, from monolayers and small organisms, such as developing fly and fish embryos, to very thick sections from brain and other organ tissues.

This position reports directly to the Facility Director.

• Orient new users to the lab and support all aspects of the daily operation of the facility. Train users (students, postdocs and faculty) and assist them with routine and complex widefield and confocal experiments. Provide guidance to facility users on sample preparation in consultation with Facility Director, as well as independently.
• Demonstrate understanding of fundamental theory behind operations of facility equipment. Achieve mastery in providing timely and efficient troubleshooting of the majority of systems during user image acquisition. Help users to switch instrument parameters, allowing users to optimize their experiments real-time.
• Ability to maintain and operate the CIF in the absence of the Facility Director. This includes onboarding new users in iLab, approving access to CIF doors through Facilities, and approving access to instrument active directories.
• Create data repository system in central data server and customize for individual users. Archive all facility data and maintain workstation computers. Perform daily and weekly quality control checks on all microscopes. Keep accurate, legible records to monitor instrument performance. In concert with Facility Director, complete scheduled and unscheduled system maintenance as needed. Assist in maintaining instrument/experiment calendars and become expert in the use of iLab scheduling software.
• Other duties as assigned by the CIF Director.

• Doctorate degree in biology, biochemistry, cell biology, genetics, biotechnology or related field is required, or years of equivalent experience
• Detail oriented
• Hands‑on experience with various analytical techniques such as Confocal Microscopy

• Knowledge of laboratory research software
• Advanced ability to accurately and completely understand, follow, interpret, and apply regulatory requirements
• Advanced technical writing skills
• Advanced problem‑solving ability
• Ability to represent the interests of the group on cross‑functional teams
• Ability to work independently in a high‑paced team environment, meets deadlines, and prioritizes work from multiple projects
• Ability to work with management
• Advanced ability to communicate effectively with peers, department management and cross‑functional peers

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

The University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's qualifications, work experience, education/training, key skills, market, collective bargaining agreements as applicable, and organizational considerations when extending an offer. The posted salary range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate for a full‑time position; salaries for part-time positions are pro‑rated accordingly.

If the salary range on the posted position shows an hourly rate, this is the baseline; the actual hourly rate may be higher, depending on the position and factors listed above.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees. Please see link for more information.

Standard Weekly Hours 36.25

Eligible for Overtime No

Benefits Eligible Yes

Probationary Period 180 days

Essential Services Personnel (see policy for detail) No

Physical Capacity Exam Required No

Valid Drivers License Required No

Salary Range $60,000 to $75,000