Summary: As an image and flow cytometer operator, must be capable of
setting up complex experiments, acquiring data, and performing
preliminary analyses of the resulting data. This is a senior technician
position that requires experience and skills in the areas listed below
and the ability to work with only general supervision. Operation of the
cytometers requires practical knowledge and experience in laser
operation, optics, electronics (analog and digital), microscopy,
fluidics, and computers. The operator will be responsible for the setup
of complex experiments, validating that the instruments are functioning
properly, and in some cases analyzing samples. Experiments on either
the flow or image cytometers involve the analysis of biological
samples, which range from bacteria and chromosomes to multicellular
spheroids. While the cytometer operator will not be responsible for the
sample preparation, the operator will be responsible for knowing the
qualities of properly prepared samples and for understanding the object
of the experiments being performed. Provide written descriptions of
technical contributions for grant proposals, progress reports, and
publications.
Required Skills: Extensive experience working on instruments that
combine several of the following fields: lasers, optics, electronics
(analog and digital), microscopy, fluidics, and computers. Ability to
work independently, with minimal supervision. Capable of assuming
responsibility for the operation of the instruments and for ensuring
the quality of the data produced. Ability to work with a variety of
investigators occasionally under time constraints. Maintain detailed
and accurate records of all experimental procedures. Performance of all
laboratory operations consistent with safe operating procedures and
good laboratory practice standards is essential. Applicant must be
capable of working with minimal supervision in a highly interactive
environment while maintaining flexibility to accommodate changing
priorities to optimize productivity.
Desired Skills: Knowledge of computer programming techniques and
languages such as C and IDL desired. Familiarity, at the user level,
with Unix, PC, and Macintosh operating systems. Familiarity with
biochemistry and/or cell biology and elementary statistics desired.
Education: College level courses in three or more of the areas cited
above or equivalent combination of education and experience required.
</bigger>
James H. Jett, Laboratory Fellow
Director, National Flow Cytometry Resource
Mail Stop M-888
Los Alamos National Laboratory
Los Alamos, NM 87545 USA
Phone: 505/667-3843
FAX: 505/665-3024
email: jett@lanl.gov
The National Flow Cytometry Resource is an NIH Resource Center.