Central Microscopy Research Facility Director

The University of Iowa; Iowa City (IA); On-site; USD 92,000 - 119,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Iowa is seeking a Director for the Central Microscopy Research Facility in Iowa City. This leadership role oversees facility operations, budgets, staff, and strategic growth, building high-performing teams and fostering cross-disciplinary collaborations to maximize scientific impact.

The director will partner with researchers across departments, manage resources, provide imaging consultation and training, and develop long-term plans that advance imaging capabilities and

Qualifications

• 5-7 years of advanced microscopy experience.
• Expertise in confocal, super-resolution, and electron microscopy techniques.
• Experience directing/managing a shared research core facility.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee the Central Microscopy Research Facility operations.
• Build and lead high-performing teams and foster cross-disciplinary collaborations.
• Manage staff, budgets, and fee-for-service operations.

Skills

Microscopy experience

Staff management

Budget management

Imaging consultation

Interpersonal skills

Education

Master’s degree in cell biology, neuroscience, biomedical engineering, or related field

Job description

Central Microscopy Research Facility Director

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] ).

T his 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.

Additional Information

• Classification Title: Core Facility Research Mgr/Dir
• Appointment Type: Professional and Scientific
• Schedule: Full-time
• Work Modality Options: On Campus

Compensation

Contact Information

• Contact Name: VPR Talent

Equal opportunity employer

The University of Iowa is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment free from discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, pregnancy (including childbirth and related conditions), disability, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, service in the U.S. military, sexual orientation, or associational preferences.

Persons with disabilities who need assistance or accommodations with the application or interview process may contact University Human Resources/Faculty and Staff Disability Services, [phone] or [e-mail] . For jobs in UI Health care, please contact UI Health care Leave & Disability Administration at 319-356-7543 .