Central Microscopy Research Facility Director

Microscopy Society; Iowa City (IA); On-site; USD 92,000 - 119,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Iowa's Central Microscopy Research Facility seeks a strategic leader to oversee operations, finances, and research programs. You will build high-performing teams, foster cross-disciplinary partnerships, and communicate the facility's value to university stakeholders.

You will lead long-range planning, ensure quality imaging services across investigators, manage staff and budgets, and drive growth and innovation in advanced microscopy technologies within a collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in a relevant field or equivalent experience is required.
• 5–7 years of advanced microscopy experience is expected.
• Experience directing or managing a shared research core facility with multiple investigators.
• Experience managing staff, budgets, and fee-for-service operations.
• Experience providing imaging consultation and training across disciplines.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and oversight of the Core Facility.
• Build and lead high-performing teams and partnerships across disciplines.
• Manage financial, operational, and research resources effectively.
• Serve as liaison to stakeholders and communicate facility value and capabilities.

Skills

Microscopy leadership

Budget management

Staff management

Imaging consultation

Cross-disciplinary collaboration

Fundraising / instrumentation

Communication

Education

Master’s degree in cell biology, neuroscience, biomedical engineering

PhD in cell biology or related field

Tools

Confocal microscopy

Super-resolution microscopy

Electron microscopy

Job description

This role provides strategic leadership and oversight of the Central Microscopy Research Facility, a complex shared research resource. The position is responsible for building and leading high-performing teams, fostering collaborative partnerships across a broad range of scientific disciplines, and ensuring the effective management of financial, operational, and research resources. The role serves as a key liaison to varied stakeholders, communicates the facility’s value and capabilities, and develops long-term strategies that advance the facility’s growth, innovation, and scientific impact.

Work Modality

In-Person, located in Eckstein Medical Research Building (EMRB).

To learn more about the department visit https://cmrf.research.uiowa.edu/

About Pay and Compensation

Pay Grade: 6A

The hiring range for this position is anticipated to be $91,899-$119,363 (6A median zone). Salary offers are based on a variety of factors, including education, experience, skills, and budget considerations. In limited circumstances, compensation outside of the anticipated range may be considered for candidates with exceptional qualifications.

Qualifications

Education or Equivalency Required

A master’s degree in cell biology, neuroscience, biomedical engineering, or a related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience is required.

Required Qualifications

• Typically, 5-7 years of advanced microscopy experience.
• Demonstrated expertise in confocal, super-resolution, and electron microscopy techniques.
• Experience directing or managing a shared research core facility supporting multiple investigators and research programs.
• Experience managing staff, budgets, and fee-for-service operations.
• Experience providing imaging consultation and training to investigators across disciplines.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and leadership skills.
• Professional experience working effectively with individuals from a variety of backgrounds and perspectives.

Highly Desirable Qualifications

• PhD in cell biology, neuroscience, biomedical engineering, or a related field.
• Success obtaining external funding for research instrumentation and facility development.

Desirable Qualifications

• Strong record of collaborative research and scholarly publications.
• Demonstrated ability to evaluate and implement emerging imaging technologies.
• Strategic planning experience.

Job openings are posted for a minimum of 14 calendar days and may be removed from posting and filled any time after the original posting period has ended.

Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check and credential/education verification. Up to 5 professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process.

For additional questions, please contact: VPR Talent ([e-mail])

This position is eligible for University sponsorship for employment authorization. If your H-1B petition is subject to the September 19, 2025, Presidential Proclamation, please note that the department will not cover the $100,000 payment associated with H-1B sponsorship, either at the time of hire or for international travel purposes. We encourage you to explore alternative pathways for work authorization. Our team is available to help identify options that may be suitable for your situation.

About the University of Iowa

Joining the University of Iowa means becoming a vital part of the Hawkeye community, where your work directly impacts education, research, and student success.

Enjoy exceptional health coverage, university-paid life insurance, robust retirement plans, and generous leave policies. Benefit from 24/7 support services, well-being resources, and access to UI Health Care specialists. Grow professionally with advanced training, leadership development, and tuition assistance.

Iowa City offers a great quality of life with world-class performances at Hancher Auditorium, Big Ten athletics, top-ranked public schools, and outdoor recreation.

Join us in making a difference at a leading Big Ten university and premier public research institution.