Electron Microscopy Specialist
The OIST Scientific Imaging Section is looking for a highly motivated and team-oriented technical specialist to primarily support FIB/SEM and serial block-face SEM workflows within the university. The candidates’ principal duties will be to maintain multiple state-the-art microscopes, and to train and assist OIST researchers in their operation.
The Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University was established in 2011 to contribute to the development of science and technology worldwide and to serve as a hub of innovation in Okinawa. OIST is a dynamic new graduate university of science and technology in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan which offers a 5-year PhD program and brings together outstanding researchers from across the country and across disciplines to conduct cutting-edge scientific research.
The university is located on 85 hectares of protected forestland overlooking a beautiful shoreline and coral reefs. The campus is striking architecturally, and the facilities are outstanding. To facilitate multidisciplinary research, there are no academic departments. Outstanding resources and equipment are provided and managed to encourage easy access and collaboration.
English is the official language of the University, and the university research community is fully international, with more than 50 countries represented. OIST is rapidly gaining recognition in the worldwide academic community as a model for excellence in education and research, and our unwavering commitment to scientific and technological innovation is dedicated to generating progress that will fuel Okinawa's economic growth.
- Provide the following services related to scanning electron microscopy:
• Training researchers to use the section’s SEM-based instruments, as well as sample preparation workflows
• Consult with and assist researchers in sample preparation, measurement, and analysis of data - Collaborate with researchers by conducting:
• Sample preparation
• Data acquisition
• Data analysis
• Preparation of files for publication - Creation of standard training programs, manuals and protocols for the efficient training and use of the instruments
- Maintenance of all relevant equipment and facilities
- Work with equipment vendors on maintenance, development, and trouble-shooting issues
- Maintenance of supplies and consumables for the machines
- Supports the purchase and procurement of equipment based on the needs of researchers, by documenting the specifications of the equipment and by communicating with the manufacturers and vendors, etc
- Maintenance of excellent records regarding research support, equipment maintenance and safety
- Other duties as assigned by the Scientific Imaging Section Leader
(Required)
- PhD in physics, biophysics or a related field
- Experience in operating and maintaining scanning electron microscopy systems, specifically those for volume electron microscopy
- A minimum of 5 years of experience in usage of relevant electron microscopy techniques
- Experience in training or mentoring
- Excellent communication skills in English
- Ability to adapt to local culture and rapidly changing work environment
(Preferred)
- Experience working in a research support division
- Japanese language skills (conversational)
In accordance with the OIST Employee Compensation Regulations (RS2)
Benefits:
- Relocation, housing and commuting allowances
- Annual paid leave and summer holidays
- Health insurance (Private School Mutual Aid)
- Welfare pension insurance (kousei-nenkin)
- Worker's accident compensation insurance (roudousha-saigai-hoshou-hoken)
- Access to Child Development Center
- Access to Schooling Options
- Language Education
- Resource Center (Daily Life Support in Okinawa)
- Remote Work System
- CV in English
- Cover letter in English
* Up to 2 references may be requested during the final interview stage.
* Please click APPLY HERE to be redirected to our application platform (Interfolio) and follow the instructions there to upload the required documents.
- OIST Graduate University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action educator and employer and is committed to increasing the diversity of its faculty, students and staff.
- Information provided by applicants or references will be kept confidential in accordance to the OIST Privacy Policy; documents will not be returned.
- Recruiting Organization: Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology School Corporation
- Prevention of Passive Smoking: No smoking indoors
- Please view our policy for rules on external professional activities: Rules for Concurrent Appointment.
- Further details about the University can be viewed on our website.
Full-time, fixed term appointment for 2 years.
Contract initially with 6-month probationary period (inclusive).
This contract may be renewed by taking into consideration the performance evaluation, conduct, and behavior of the Employee and OIST’s financial and other circumstances.
9:00-17:30 (Discretionary)
Holidays
Saturday, Sunday, National holidays, and Year-end and New Year holidays (Dec. 29 – Jan. 3)
Leave
Annual Paid Holidays, Summer Leave, Sick Leave, and Special Leave
Thank you for your interest in this opportunity. Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.