Cryo-Electron Microscopy Specialist
The Scientific Imaging Section as part of the OIST Core Facilities is a world class imaging center with cutting-edge cryo-TEMs, analytical TEMs, serial block face SEM, focused ion beam SEM, X-ray CT microscope, confocal (two photon) microscopes, super-resolution microscopes (SIM, STED, STORM), light-sheet microscope and the accompanying sample preparation instruments. The Scientific Imaging Section is supported by a high-quality Scientific Computing and Data Analysis Section.
The Scientific Imaging Section has been adopted as a member of the project “Basis for Supporting Innovative Drug Discovery and Life Science Research (BINDS, FY2022-FY2026)” funded by Japan Agency for Medical Research (AMED). We provide technical support and collaborations on molecular structural analysis using cryo-electron microscopy to external researchers through AMED. To spread this Nobel Prize winning technology, we setup an on-site training program for young scientists and hold an annual CryoEM Workshop with well-reputed Japanese scientists as instructors and international high-ranking scientists as keynote speakers (https://groups.oist.jp/img/amed).
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.
- Analysis of biological macromolecules within the demands of the BINDS project: quality control, cryo-grid preparation, imaging and reconstructing the structure (project-dependent).
- Continue our successful training program in cryo-electron microscopy.
- Provide support services on structural analysis of proteins, etc. on cryo-sample preparation, data acquisition and analysis.
- Provide users with appropriate training and access to the cryo-TEMs and relevant equipment, and monitor the usage of the facility.
- Provide consultation about cryo-EM imaging, measurement and analysis, and/or support services on cryo-sample preparation, machine operation for data acquisition, and data analysis.
- Expand the coverage of support by introducing the latest technologies to the users and by getting professional technical trainings.
- Contribute to collaborative relationships with other domestic and international institutes.
- Join the Japanese cryo-EM community and participate actively.
- Other duties required of a member of the Scientific Imaging Section
- Specific expertise in cryo-electron microscopy, with ability to prepare samples, to operate cryo-TEMs, to analyze data, and to support users.
- Research track record about cryo electron microscopy, with Ph.D or equivalent degree, multiple publications in cryo-EM.
- Work experience in a core facility of universities or institutes for science is preferable.
- Sense of fairness, compliance and teamwork in diverse and multicultural settings.
- Excellent communication skill in English. Ability to communicate in Japanese is preferable.
- Proactive participation in technical and organizational improvement, collaborating with colleagues.
In accordance with the OIST Employee Compensation Regulations
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)
- Cover letter in English required. Japanese version required only for Applicants whose native language is Japanese.
- Curriculum vitae in English required. Japanese version required only for Applicants whose native language is Japanese.
- 2 reference letters will be required if the Applicant is selected as a shortlisted candidate.
* Please be sure to indicate where you first saw the job advertisement.
- 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. The University strongly encourages applications from underrepresented groups.
- Information provided by applicants or references will be kept confidential, documents will not be returned. All applicants will be notified regarding the status of their applications.
- Please view OIST policy for rules on external professional activities
- Further details about the University can be viewed on the OIST website www.oist.jp.
Full-time appointment. Contract initially with 3 month probationary period (inclusive). This contract may be renewed each fiscal year annually until 31st March 2027.
The total term of fixed term employment with OIST will not exceed 10 years in the condition.
9:00-17:30 (Discretionary)