Staff Scientist in Cryo-EM (2 posts) at University of Oxford

February 12, 2024

Job Description

We are seeking to appoint 2 Staff Scientist to join the growing Central Oxford Structural Molecular Imaging Centre (COSMIC). This is a dynamic flagship cryo-electron microscopy facility based in the Dorothy Crowfoot Hodgkin Building in the centre of Oxford. COSMIC houses three Thermo Scientific cryo-electron microscopes: a Titan Krios with a Bioquantum K3 detector, a Talos Arctica with a Falcon 4i detector and a Talos F200C, as well as a Zeiss Crossbeam 350 FIB-SEM. Also incorporated are a humidity-controlled sample preparation room and a purpose-built server room for data processing. Additionally, we are in the process of expanding our facilities to include cryo CLEM solutions, with funding in place for cryo-fluorescence.

The Staff Scientists will work closely and report to the Microscope Facility Manager, ensuring efficient running of the facility, contributing to maintenance of the equipment, training users and engaging in collaborative research projects. They will also work with the Computational team, supporting them in building and maintaining the servers and providing user support. They will play a crucial and productive role in an outstanding and growing user facility, supporting world class research.

The two positions advertised have overlapping duties and responsibilities although one will focus primarily on support for single-particle cryoEM projects, while the other will focus primarily on cryo-tomography and cryoCLEM.

These posts are full-time and permanent.

The actual starting salary offered will be based on qualifications and relevant skills acquired and will also be determined by the funding available. We would be willing to consider candidates with potential but less experience who are seeking a development opportunity, for which an initial appointment would be at grade 6 (£32,332 – £38,205 per annum) with the responsibilities adjusted accordingly. This would be discussed with applicants at interview/appointment where appropriate.

Your happiness and wellbeing at work matters to us, so we offer a range of family friendly and financial benefits including:

  • An excellent contributory pension scheme
  • 38 days annual leave
  • A comprehensive range of childcare services
  • Family leave schemes
  • Cycle loan scheme
  • Membership to a variety of social and sports clubs
  • Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans

The University also runs an enormous amount of social groups and sports clubs for those looking for more than just a great place to work.

You should hold a minimum of a BSc, or the equivalent in a relevant area of science. You should be a well-trained, enthusiastic and proactive and self-motivated scientist with sufficient specialist knowledge in cryo-electron microscopy to be able to train others and to trouble shoot experiments (although training will be provided). Excellent organisational and communication skills, and ability to work as part of a team are essential.

These are permanent positions. If you are interested in either of these roles and have the skills and experience we are looking for, please apply online indicating your preference. You will be required to upload a CV and supporting statement as part of your online application, setting out how you meet the selection criteria. You are also asked to include the names and contact details of two referees as part of your online application. Please indicate in the cover letter which position(s) you would wish to be considered for.

Only applications received before noon Friday 8th March 2024 can be considered.

Committed to equality and valuing diversity


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