Electron Microscopy Lab Coordinator Duties
SUMMARY
This is responsible, professional, administrative, technical,
and supervisory work of a highly specialized nature in an
electron microscope laboratory.
Work involves the responsibility for proper utilization and
maintenance of a variety of electron microscopes and other
laboratory equipment. Work also involves coordinating,
supervising, and scheduling research activities in the
laboratory. Work is performed with considerable independence and
is reviewed through conferences and by the observation of
results obtained.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Supervises the operations of the electron microscope laboratory
consisting of instructing and training personnel concerning
techniques of electron microscope utilization.
Consults with investigators on the feasibility of research
projects and gives advice on the best procedures of specimen
preparation; assists with the interpretation of results
obtained. Schedules and coordinates research activities in the
lab.
Performs routine tests on electron microscopes to determine
their resolving power; disassembles, cleans, aligns, and tunes
instruments for optimum resolving power.
Prepares critically important test specimens to determine the
performance level of the instrument.
Calibrates the electron microscopes for magnification values.
Prepares delicate films for supporting specimens viewed in the
electron microscope.
Prepares specimens for electron microscopy, using techniques of
vetrathin sectioning of plastic-embedded materials as well as
shadowing specimens with metal vaporized in a vacuum.
Does photographic printing from plate negatives; makes lantern
slides.
Supervises and implements proper maintenance of laboratory
equipment to insure optimum performance.
Directs the purchase of supplies and equipment.
Performs independent and complex research for unusual types of
equipment needed for applications in projects.
Improvises special devises for research projects.
Instructs laboratory personnel in the use of high vacuum
equipment.
Trains graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, technicians, and
other related personnel to operate and align electron
microscopes, to evaluate their performance levels, and gives
advice and assistance for obtaining the best performance from
the instruments.
Assists with the preparation of professional papers on research
results for publication.
Performs related work as required.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a
Master's degree in microbiology, chemistry, biology, or a
related area; and thorough experience in laboratory work,
including considerable experience in electron microscope work or
any equivalent combination of training and experience.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Extensive knowledge of the procedures and techniques used in an
electron microscope laboratory.
Extensive knowledge of chemistry and biology.
Thorough knowledge of special electron microscope techniques.
Thorough knowledge of the principles of electron theory.
Some knowledge of the research being performed.
Ability to exercise independent judgement in the choice of
electron microscope techniques to be used.
Ability to coordinate and supervise activities of a laboratory.
Ability to perform tasks requiring a high degree of finger
dexterity.
Ability to train others in the use of the equipment in the
electron microscope laboratory.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working
relationships with superiors, investigators, subordinates, and
others who use the laboratory. |
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