Senior Electron Microscopy Specialist (Fixed Term)

The Cardona Lab is a neuroscience research group at the Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience at the University of Cambridge. We are looking for a Senior Microscopy Specialist to provide expertise through shared services and usage of the Zeiss Gemini 450 FIB-SEM, installed and operating in the WEMS facility of the University.

Our lab's research focuses on the study of the neural circuit basis of behaviour, starting by mapping the synaptic wiring diagrams, or connectome, of whole brains, formulating computational models of neural circuit function, and testing these models with experiments in the lab, using primarily the fruit fly as a model system, given its outstanding genetic toolkit for monitoring and manipulating neural activity in the stereotyped and individually identifiable neurons of its nervous system.

A major technique mastered in the lab is large-scale volume electron microscopy, in both FIBSEM and TEM, plus associated image processing methods for aligning and contrast-correcting volumes followed by machine learning-based approaches to segment neurons and identify synapses to map the connectome.

The role holder's duties will include:

• Teaching electron microscopy to graduate students and postdocs;
• Developing novel sample preparation protocols for new samples, particularly of brain tissue;
• Directing multi-week 24/7 imaging sessions to acquire volumes of complete brains;
• Developing the software for automated imaging.

They will also be a reference source of expertise in sample preparation for electron microscopy, embedding in resins, trimming, mounting, and imaging with the lab's FIBSEM instruments.

The successful candidate will have experience working in a research-based Electron Microscopy laboratory, which will have included teaching and mentoring in the design and execution of experiments, operating, maintaining and enhancing FIBSEM instruments as well as preparing samples for block face imaging with FIBSEM.

Please refer to the further particulars for a full list of the essential knowledge, skills and experience required for the role. Informal enquiries about the position can be made to Professor Albert Cardona (ac2040@cam.ac.uk).

Fixed Term: the funds for this post are available for 4 years in the first instance.

To apply for this post, please submit a CV, a motivation letter detailing why you want to be part of this project and how this post will be a good stepping-stone for your career. We also need the contact details for two people who can provide a professional reference.

The closing date for applications is 10 June 2025. Please quote reference PM46083 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

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