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Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research (Cambridge, MA) is a leading,
nonprofit research and educational institution that has defined the cutting
edge of biomedical science, creating a legacy of research excellence and
academic eminence since 1982. Wholly independent in its governance, finances
and research programs, Whitehead shares a teaching affiliation with
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), offering the intellectual,
collegial and scientific benefits of a leading research university. 
Whitehead’s Faculty Members and Fellows run pioneering programs in cancer
research, immunology, developmental biology, stem cell research,
regenerative medicine, genetics and genomics—programs with a record of
success. Director David C. Page likens the Institute to an artists’ colony.
 “What we do here at Whitehead is to attract the best possible intellectual
capital and empower maximally creative—really wildly creative—individuals to
realize their dreams within these walls”.

Overall responsibilities for Technician and Specialist levels
•	Support and train users on the light microscopes in the Whitehead
Institute’s, Keck Imaging Facility (including widefield, TIR-FM, spinning
disc, and confocal microscopes) for imaging of both fixed and live samples.
•	Assist in the general maintenance of Keck microscopy facility including
updating the user database, maintaining and cleaning the scientific
instruments, and ensuring the maintenance of necessary reagents.
•	Other tasks as required or assigned.

Incumbent will train users on how to properly use the microscopes in the
facility (both initial training and more advanced sessions), working with
users to discuss the way to use microscopy to maximize their research goals.
 The incumbent may also provide users with services that complement their
work.  The incumbent must be able to recognize and report problems and/or
issues that arise with the microscopes, and must be able to work with other
facility personnel and microscope service engineers to correct such
problems.  In addition to working with users, the incumbent is responsible
for keeping the microscopes clean, for every day lab cleaning, and for
preparing and maintaining stock solutions for facility use. 

Additional responsibilities for Specialist level
•	Consult with users on experiment design, materials and methods, and
instrument optimization. 
•	Assist in data acquisition and analysis, troubleshooting problems with
microscopes or samples. 
•	Organize/conduct periodic courses explaining core principles of light
microscopy and specific approaches/applications.
•	Work with the other members of the Keck facility to develop future plans
for the acquisition, implementation, and use of additional light microscopes.

Qualifications
•	Strong knowledge of advanced light microscopy techniques including TIR-FM,
confocal microscopy, and image processing software. 
•	A Bachelor’s Degree in biological and/or physical sciences, or a related
discipline. 
•	For Technician level, a minimum of one year’s experience working in a
biomedical research laboratory preferred with understanding of basic lab
techniques and principles of cell biology. 
•	Strong computer and record keeping skills for maintaining an up to date
facility database and web site. 
•	Strong written and verbal communications, interpersonal and customer
service skills.
•	Strong troubleshooting and problem solving skills.  
•	The ability to work independently under deadlines with minimal guidance,
and to work as a team member.

Additional qualifications for Specialist level
•	 5 -7 years of related experience.
•	A working knowledge of design, theory and functioning of instrumentation
and how instrumentation can support research goals as put forth by users.
•	Drive and ability to stay current on, and apply advances in the field of
light microscopy that can enhance research locally, and support faculty,
research support staff and students, by assisting and training them to carry
out advanced microscopy techniques in support of their studies.