Senior Electron Microscopy Technician (cover)

The University of Manchester; Manchester; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous employer pension contribution

Christmas closure across all depts.

Purple Place employee discount

Job summary

The University of Manchester is seeking a Senior Technician (Electron Microscopy) to join the Electron Microscopy Core Facility in Manchester. The role focuses on high-level laboratory technical support across the facility to advance world-class research and teaching in a dynamic, inclusive environment.

You will operate advanced EM instruments such as TALOS TEM, GLACIOS TEM and Apreo Volumescope, train students and staff, and ensure safe, efficient facility operations on a day-to-day basis.

Qualifications

• Experience with Electron Microscopy techniques and procedures including tissue processing for TEM/SEM
• Ability to train users in instrument operation and applications
• Experience documenting procedures and creating SOPs
• Ability to diagnose and troubleshoot complex equipment issues
• Experience running day-to-day lab technical support and service provision

Responsibilities

• Support STS with operations of EM equipment
• Provide training and user support for EM software and instruments
• Create SOPs and guide Electron Microscopy procedures
• Troubleshoot complex equipment issues using advanced knowledge
• Ensure smooth daily operation of research technical support services

Skills

Electron Microscopy

Training others

Independent work

Safety compliance

Lab operations

Education

Biological science degree or equivalent

Tools

TALOS TEM

GLACIOS TEM

Apreo Volumescope

Job description

Senior Technician (Electron Microscopy)

We are seeking a motivated and collaborative individual to join our Electron Microscopy Core Facility as a Senior Technician (Electron Microscopy). This role offers an exciting opportunity to provide high-level laboratory technical support across the facility to support world-class research and teaching within a dynamic and inclusive environment.

We are seeking a motivated and collaborative individual to join our Electron Microscopy Core Facility as a Senior Technician (Electron Microscopy). This role offers an exciting opportunity to provide high-level laboratory technical support across the facility to support world-class research and teaching within a dynamic and inclusive environment.

You will be responsible for:

• Support expert and senior technical specialist (STS) with the operations of complex Electron Microscopy (EM) research equipment (e.g., TALOS TEM, GLACIOS TEM & Apreo Volumescope).
• Perform experimental and user support using a range of EM equipment and software, as well as developing and delivering training for students and staff in instrument operation and applications.
• Provide training, documentation (SOPs) and guidance in Electron Microscopy procedures.
• Fault find, troubleshoot and solve more complex equipment issues using your own advanced knowledge, experience and initiative.
• Take day-to-day responsibility for the smooth and uninterrupted operation of research technical support and service provision activities.

We welcome candidates who bring diverse perspectives, experiences, and approaches to their work.

About You

We encourage applications from individuals with a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. You should demonstrate:

Essential Criteria

• Excellent knowledge, understanding and experience of implementing and applying relevant health and safety requirements in a biological science environment (e.g. risk assessments, operating procedures, COSHH assessments)
• In depth experience of Electron Microscopy techniques/methodologies and procedures (tissue samples processing for transmission or scanning electron microscopy, production of ultrathin sections from resin embedded samples, operation of electron microscopes to view biological samples independently) and a familiarity with the fundamental scientific principles associated with these.
• Able to train others in the use of equipment and methodologies, including how to access support.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as a member of a multi-disciplinary team.
• A qualification in a biological science or related subject area e.g. degree, HND, HNC, or significant work experience of working independently in a relevant technical or scientific role.

Desirable Criteria

• Knowledge of technical operations gained from within an Educational or service provision setting.
• Experience in complex sample processing and imaging: high pressure freezing, freeze substitution, correlative light electron microscopy, electron tomography etc.
• Experience of supervising staff, trainees and/or apprentices.
• An aptitude for training and mentoring students from a diverse range of backgrounds.
• Professional Registration or a willingness to work towards this.

We value transferable skills and real‑world experience as much as formal qualifications.

Our benefits include:

• Generous employer pension contribution
• Christmas closure across all departments outside of annual leave and bank holidays
• Purple Place employee discount platform

For more information, please see University of Manchester Benefits. You can also find information on our Flexible and Hybrid working here.

We are an open place of enquiry and challenge. We embrace and celebrate difference, diversity and debate, and we pride ourselves on being a place of education, learning and community where we are able, within the law, to question and test received wisdom, express new ideas and explore controversial or unpopular topics and opinions. Find out more from our Freedom of Speech Policy.

Enquiries about the role, shortlisting and interviews

Name: Richard Collins

Email Address: [e-mail]

General enquiries and administrative support

[e-mail]

Technical and job portal support

https://jobseekersupport.jobtrain.co.uk/support/home

This role may be eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship.

Applications close at midnight on the closing date.

Further particulars (with person specification) linked below.